The Application Process

Full Plans Application

Building Consultancy generally operates a two-stage process, referred to as the full plans application.

Plan Stage

The first stage of any full plans application is known as the 'plan stage'. This first stage involves the applicant submitting detailed plans for approval. These plans are very carefully checked by a Building Control Officer to ensure they include all necessary information, and that they comply fully with the Building Regulations. Wherever possible, applicants are given the opportunity to make amendments (if required) before either an approval, conditional approval or rejection is given.

Inspections Stage

The second stage of a full plans application is known as the 'inspection stage'. This second stage starts when work commences on site. A series of site visits are made to check that work proceeds in accordance with the plan, and hence complies with regulations.

Building Notice Application

For more simple works, an alternative application (known as the 'building notice application') is available, together with more specialized application types to meet specific needs.

Application forms and fee information can be downloaded from the website or sent though the post. 

Complicated schemes and large projects take longer to deal with than smaller projects, mainly due to the necessary consultation process.  To reduce this period to a minimum we have service level agreements with groups we consult.

During the construction process, inspections will be made at your request.  Usually these will be made on the same day the request is made if you telephone before 10am.  When contacting us for an inspection, it will help us to give you prompt attention if you tell us:

1.   The inspection you require (ie. excavations)
2.   Preferred time of visit (am or pm)
3.   Application Number
4.   Full site address
5.   Builder's name

It is important that you request all of the relevant inspections at the right time so that a completion certificate can be issued at the end of the project.

You can find further information on the different types of Building Regulation applications by clicking on the Building Consultancy - Types of Application page.

If you would like to speak to a member of the Building Consultancy Team please contact us, details below.

Contact Details

Building Consultancy

Email - buildingconsultancy@chester.gov.uk

Opening hours - 8.45am - 4.45pm

Phone number - 01244 402224

Fax - 01244 321876

Address - Building Consultancy, Development Directorate, Chester City Council, The Forum, Chester, CH1 2HS