Building Warrant Applications

The design and construction of buildings is controlled by ensuring Building Warrant applications comply with Building Regulations for most classes and types of building, whether public or private and includes houses, shops, leisure facilities, factories, warehouses etc.

A Building Warrant application is required for the erection, change of use, alteration or extension of a building and is also necessary for the demolition of a property. It is valid for three years and construction work cannot begin before the Building Warrant has been approved.

The processing of Building Warrants is a major part of the work done by Building Standards staff.

All application forms must be accompanied by two full sets of scaled drawings and should indicate details of the proposals. A complete specification of building materials and method of construction should be included and where specific details of construction is required this should also be shown by submitting large scale drawings. A location plan and a block plan are necessary to identify where the building is located in relation to the surrounding area and indicate the site boundaries, adjacent roads and properties, the drainage layout and the position on site of the building.

Where the proposed work involves structural design, e.g. steel frame, beams, lintels, roof structures, either structural calculations or alternatively a structural design certificate, using the form available from Building Standards, signed by a chartered civil or structural engineer, should accompany the Building Warrant application.

When an application is received a fee requires to be paid based upon the estimated cost of the work. The current fee scales are shown on this website, however, the Scottish Office are often reviewing these amounts so it is worth checking whether any changes have been made.

Building Standards consult with various bodies before the assessment of a Building Warrant is complete e.g. Fire Authority, SEPA (Scottish Environmental Protection Agency), Scottish Water and the Health & Safety Executive.

The length of time it takes for checking an application will vary depending on the size and complexity of the proposals and any adjustments to the design to show compliance with the Building Regulations.