There are a number of classes of new buildings or extensions of existing buildings that do not need Building Regulations (BR) approval. Amongst these are conservatories and porches, which are exempt from the regulations provided that they meet certain criteria. If in doubt, contact your local Building Regulation Control authority. The criteria are:

• They are built at ground level
• They are single storey
• They have a floor area not greater than 30m²
• At least half of the new wall and three quarters of the roof is either glazed or translucent material
• Any conservatory is separated from the house by an external quality door
• The front entrance door between the existing house and a new porch must remain in place
• If the house has ramped or level access for disabled people, the porch must not adversely affect access
• Glazing and any fixed electrical installations must comply with the applicable Building Regulations requirements

If in doubt whether the BR apply, contact your local Building Regulation Control authority. For more information, see our 'Building regulations' section.

For more information on glazing and electrical installations see our 'Maintenance and renovation work' section.