Building regulations will generally apply if you want to build an extension to your home.
However, conservatories are normally exempt from building regulations when:
- They are built at ground level and are less than 30 square metres in internal floor area.
- The conservatory is thermally separated from the house by external quality walls, doors or windows.
- There is no fixed heating appliance or the buildings heating system is not extended into the conservatory.
- Glazing and any fixed electrical installations comply with the applicable building regulations requirements (see below).
You are advised not to construct conservatories where they will restrict ladder access to windows serving rooms in roof or loft conversions, particularly if any of the windows are intended to help escape or rescue if there is a fire.
Any new structural opening between the conservatory and the existing house will require building regulations approval, even if the conservatory itself is an exempt structure.
Further Information
The following common work sections gives an indication of other elements normally required to satisfy the requirements of the Regulations for conservatories: