Essential works to our phone payments system
We're carrying out essential works to our phone system. This means you may experience a problem paying by phone. You can still make payments online.
How we process your application, including how long it takes to make a decision.
If your application meets current building regulations standards, then we will approve it.
In some cases we will issue a conditional approval if additional information is not available at the time the application was submitted and approved.
Conditional approval needs to take place prior to the relevant work starting on site, such as manufacturer’s calculations for roof trusses.
There is an 8-week time limit on issuing a decision for a full plans application.
If you are building over or near a shared or public drain, you need to enter into a 'build over agreement' with Thames Water. They own and are responsible for the maintenance of these drainage runs.
Find out more about building over or near a sewer – Thames Water.
If your building work involves electrical work, gas or solid fuel heaters, you should employ qualified and competent trades people to do the work.
The contractor is required be to registered on the competent persons' scheme. They are required to issue you with a certificate to confirm the completed works.
If your contractor is not registered, please contact us at the start of the project. We will need to arrange additional inspections to inspect the works, which will incur an additional cost.