A building warrant is generally required to erect, alter (internally or externally), extend, convert or demolish a building, but as explained below, this is not always the case.
You can view the full list of works exempt from building warrant in Section 0:3 (Exempted buildings and services, fittings and equipment) in the Technical Handbook. To help we have a list of the most common types of work in the form of self assessment checklists.
Self-assessment checklists
The checklists relate to the most common types of work homeowners undertake. They should enable you to decide if you will need a warrant.
- Do I need a building warrant to alter my house (PDF, 326 KB)
- Do I need a building warrant to alter my flat (PDF, 234 KB)
- Do I need a building warrant for a garage (PDF, 231 KB)
- Do I need a building warrant for decking (PDF, 162 KB)
- Do I need a building warrant to erect a conservatory or porch (PDF, 200 KB)
- Do I need a building warrant to erect a fence or wall (PDF, 195 KB)
Once you have completed a checklist we recommend you keep it safe with a copy of your plan as this may prove useful should you ever sell the property.
If you prefer to obtain confirmation from us, then this is an option that is explained on the checklist.
Please be aware that even if a warrant is not required, the work must still comply with building regulations. Again the checklist includes details of the assessment service we can offer. In any event we strongly recommend you have work independently supervised by a suitably qualified and experienced person.
Please be aware that if a warrant is required, you cannot start work until this has been approved otherwise you will be guilty of an offence under the Building (Scotland) Act 2003. If you do apply after work has started, the warrant fee increases significantly and you may also incur extra costs if work is later found not to meet current building standards.
Normally where a warrant is required, both it and a Completion certificate will be required when selling your property.
Written confirmation
As noted above, we do offer the following services
- written confirmation of exemption
- written confirmation of exemption and compliance
Details of how to apply for these services, which may be helpful should you decide to sell your property, are included in the checklists. The costs can be found on our fees page.
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