Local Authorities in England can now charge for processing Building Control notices and certificates.

Find out how the new regulations affect your project.

Short notice

The legislation was published on 14 October 2026, ahead of implementation on 6 November. We’re helping clients understand what this means for their project.

When we submit documents on your behalf, the LA may now charge a processing fee. 

How this affects your project

Different LAs, different fees – no national tariff. Each LA sets its own rates and must publish its charging scheme online before it takes effect. Rates will therefore differ between LAs.

Not all LAs will charge immediately. Some will take time to introduce their charging schemes, potentially into 2027. If you have multiple projects with us, charges may apply to some but not others, depending on the LA for each project.

Non-payment can lead to rejection. Where a charge applies, the LA may reject a notice or certificate if payment has not been made. Prompt payment helps avoid delays.

Existing projects may be affected, including notices and certificates that are yet to be submitted. We will communicate any impact on a project-by-project basis. Known LA charges will be identified where available, and we will explain applicable charges and payment arrangements as part of your project communications. Charges introduced or revised during the project may be additional to the original fee proposal.

What are we doing?

We are reviewing live projects against each relevant LA’s published position and monitoring new charging schemes as they are introduced. We’ll help you understand what applies and what happens next – for both existing and new projects.