Building Warrant is the permission which is required before starting "building" work. Building covers nearly all building activities including alterations, conversions and demolition work. There are some exceptions which are listed fully in the Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations and associated technical handbooks (see paragraph at end of these notes). Submission of an application for Building Warrant does not exempt an applicant from obtaining any other permissions which may be required, for example Planning Permission, or from the Owner.
Experience has shown that appropriate approvals such as Planning Permission, Building Warrant and particularly the Notice of Acceptance of Certificate of Completion which follows completion of the work, are important when property is to be sold. Purchasing solicitors normally insist that all necessary consents have been obtained and that the work has been carried out in accordance with the approvals granted. Lack of appropriate approvals can jeopardise a sale or reduce the value of property. It is strongly recommended that applicants appoint a suitably qualified professional, for example an architect, chartered surveyor or building consultant, to advise on design and look after their interests on site as work progresses. The purpose of the building standards system is to protect the public interest. It is not intended to provide protection to a client in a contract with a builder.
Applicants are advised to contact Planning and Sustainable Development to determine if Building Warrant Approval is required for the works proposed.
