Update. After calling the Planning helpline they advised me to fill in the building control forms - which I did, but then it turned out I didn't need to (or had filled in the wrong forms). So I went on to the Building control bit of Wandsworth council and found the person who is responsible for our area and contacted him directly. He was super helpful, and we arranged a site visit where he explained the process and what we needed to do when and will come back during the build and after it to sign it off. 

 

When you say you are getting building control. Are you the homeowner submitting the application form. We thought we didn't need it (work already started) but it now appears we do need it. And I'm wondering if it's ok if I just submit the form? 
Any top tips much appreciated 
 

I am currently doing similar works involving adding an en-suite and I am getting building control. My builder is a friend so I trust him when he says it is needed. It's because of the new drainage, venting etc required for a new bathroom. You also might not be planning to sell/rent at the moment but if circumstances change and you do, I can guarantee your buyers would want that certificate. Hope that helps!

Hi Everyone,

We are updating our house internally, with a few changes, that are not structural (an en suite for example). Is building control necessary? And why is it necessary (we are not looking to sell it or rent it). 

I've spoken to a few surveyors and they all said it's necessary but I don't know if they say this for obvious reasons that they want the job. I've also spoken to developers/project managers and they said they haven't in the past for similar projects and it has never been a problem.

Any light on this would be grateful.