FAQs

Q: Can I get a copy of my completion certificate?

A: If you require a copy of completion certificate, you will need to ask the Building Control body or private approved inspector who inspected your work. If the work was inspected by the council, you can submit a request by emailing Buildingcontrol@tamesisde.gov.uk

There is a charge for this service depending on the work and how quickly the document is required, starting from £20. 

We can only issue copies to the owner of the property or a Lawyer acting on their behalf.

We are unable to provide copies of Completion Certificates for work undertaken by Approved Inspectors (references ending IN) or Competent Persons (references ending CP).

 Q: Do I need Building Regulations?

A: You will require Building Regulations approval if you intend to carry out any new structural work or alterations to your home. There are, of course, some exemptions. If you are unsure whether your project needs Building Control approval, please contact us. 

Q: Do you work weekends and bank holidays?

A: Our working hours are 9am to 5pm Monday to Thursday and 9am to 4pm on Fridays. Please note that we do not work on Saturday, Sundays, or bank holidays.

Q: What is the difference between Building Control applications and planning applications?

A: Planning permission relates mainly to the correct use of land, the aesthetic appearance of the proposed building, and the effect that the development will have on the general environment and neighbouring properties.

Planning also deals with listed buildings and conservation areas. If you have a planning enquiry, you will need to contact your local council and ask for their planning department.

Building Regulations, on the other hand, are concerned with the way in which the building is constructed, its structural stability, means of escape and fire precautions, weather resistance, energy conservation, sound insulation, access, and facilities for people with disabilities.

Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council provides local authority Building Regulations approval. 

Q: How long are Building Control records held?

A: By law we have to keep records of any building control applications we receive for a minimum of 15 years.

Q: Can you recommend an architect, builder, surveyor, or structural engineer?

A: Currently and due to being impartial, we don't keep a list of tradespersons and are unable to recommend any individuals or companies due to us remaining impartial. We are looking at potentially setting up a list of Partner companies in the Local Area. 

Q: What do I have to do under the Party wall Act?

A: The local authority does not enforce the Party Wall Act. You should enter negotiations with your neighbour if you are carrying out work to, on or near the party wall or boundary. You may need the services of a Party Wall Surveyor. Details can be obtained from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

Q: What can I do if I have carried out building works without making an application?

A: You can complete an application form by visiting the make an applications page if the works were carried out after November 1985. Submit a regularisation application does not automatically lead to a certificate being issued. We may need some of the works exposed for inspection and additional measures to ensure that the works are safe.

Q: When will I receive my Completion Certificate?

A: Once the works have been completed and we have made a satisfactory final inspection, we will issue you with a Completion Certificate by email or post if requested. 

Q: How do I find drainage plans for my property?

A: If you want to get hold of your property's existing drainage plans, please contact your local water authority. Generally, the drainage plans provided from your local water authority will show you the location of all main drains on your road and not the private drainage system of your property. Building Control does not hold copies of private drainage plans.

Approved Documents F, L, O and S FAQs

Q: What are the new U-Values for renovating of a thermal element?

A: These stay the same as in table 4.3 in new document, however ventilation requirements are mentioned in Approved Document F when thermally upgrading.

Q: Are there any changes to overglazing in an extension?

A: The method currently used is analysis of the CO2 emission rate. From June 2022 a primary energy metric has been introduced to the whole house calculation - it looks at the sources of energy into the home and how it was produced.

Q: Does a conversion into a dwelling require an air test?

A: No, you will need to meet the minimum limiting standards set out in the guidance table 4.2

Q: With regard to large multi-plot sites, what is the definition of a commencement?

A: Considerable drainage works to be agreed with the local Building Control authority or foundations excavated and poured.