Building Regulations are national standards which apply to all types of buildings, from major new developments to an extension to your home. They cover all aspects of construction, including foundations, damp-proofing, the overall stability of the building, insulation, ventilation, heating, fire protection and means of escape in case of fire. They also ensure that adequate facilities for people with disabilities are provided in certain types of building.
The UK Building Regulations (parts A-R) are constantly being updated and a brief explanation of each is listed below. The full text can be viewed by using the hyperlink.
This section is concerned with ensuring that the structural stability of the building is maintained. Areas covered include design of foundations, walls, floors and roof components.
Includes the provision of satisfactory fire escape routes, preventing fire spreading both within and to other buildings and providing good access and fire fighting facilities for the Fire Services.
Contains the recommendations of making sure your property remains free from damp penetration, condensation, from any contamination that may be in the ground, and watertight.
Provides guidance on the prevention of toxic substances permeating into the building when inserting insulation into cavity walls.
Recommends the provision of adequate levels of sound insulation between dwellings, flats and certain other types of rooms and buildings.
Provides for adequate levels of ventilation to buildings and prevention of condensation forming in roof voids.
Is concerned with providing sanitary conveniences and adequate washing facilities. The section also recommends safety precautions associated with un-vented hot water storage systems.
This section deals with the disposal of foul and storm water drainage together with details for solid waste storage (household refuse).
Provides comprehensive advice regarding the provision of adequate thermal insulation to all parts of the building. This section also provides design criteria for space heating and hot water storage.
This section deals with the design of buildings to enable all people to gain access, and be able to use the facilities of the building. It also makes provisions for people with sight or impaired hearing limiting their ability to walk or requiring them to use a wheelchair for mobility.
This part applies to electrical installation work in dwellings, common parts to dwellings and associated gardens.