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Building Regulations

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Building Control system and Approved Document supporting regulation 7

This consultation on changes to the Building Control system and Approved Document supporting regulation 7 closes on 21 June 2013.

Implementing the Domestic Fire Safety (Wales) Measure 2011

We want your views on proposed regulations to make sprinklers and fire suppression systems compulsory in new and converted homes.

Domestic fire safety (Wales) Measure 2011

This Measure enables us to make regulations so sprinklers are compulsory in all new and converted homes.

Construction sector

Construction sector
Wales’ construction industry plays a vital role in delivering a vibrant economy and a quality environment.

Building Regulations set standards for design and construction which apply to most new buildings and many alterations to existing buildings.

They are made under powers provided in the Building Act 1984. They ensure the health and safety of people in and near buildings. They also cover: 

  • saving energy
  • access
  • use of buildings

In Wales, we are now responsible for the majority of functions under the Building Act - including making Building Regulations in Wales. The functions that have remained with the UK Government are as set out in The Welsh Ministers (Transfer of Functions) (No. 2) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/3019).

Current documents and guidance can be seen on our Approved Documents page.

We have proposed our first changes to Building Regulations for Wales in our July 2010 policy statement. These changes are intended to support our aim to achieve zero carbon new build.

A nearly ‘zero carbon’ building is one which uses little or no carbon to heat or cool it (the energy use of the building) and so has low/zero annual net emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2). This definition only covers the Building Regulations and does not cover the non-fixed electrical or gas appliances in the building (like cookers, computers and televisions).

We are reviewing Schedule 1 Part L to the Building Regulations 2010. This covers Conservation of Fuel and Power.

Anyone wanting to carry out building work which is covered by the Building Regulations is required by law to make sure it complies with the regulations. There are two types of Building Control Service available.

Constructing Excellence in Wales

Constructing Excellence in Wales (external link) is a Welsh Government sponsored organisation which helps the construction industry improve its performance so as to deliver better quality and value for money to its clients and end-users in Wales.