Published on : 29 October 20223 min reading time
In many cases, people can do work without permission from the government or other authorities. For example, someone might put up a fence around their property without first getting permission from the city. Or, a group of people might start a business without getting all the necessary licenses and permits. In general, people are allowed to do what they want as long as they don’t break any laws.
There are some exceptions, of course. People can’t build a nuclear power plant in their backyard without permission. And, in some cases, people need to get a permit before they can do work on their own property. But in general, people are free to do what they want without having to get permission from the government.
Types of work that do not require a construction licence
There are some types of work that do not require a construction licence from the local authority. This includes certain types of repair, maintenance and improvement work, as well as some types of demolition.
If the work is being carried out on a listed building, listed building consent will be required in addition to any other necessary permissions.
Generally speaking, works which do not require a construction licence are those which do not result in a material change to the appearance of the building, or which do not affect its structural integrity.
Some examples of work which would not normally require a construction licence include:
– Replacing windows or doors
– Internal decoration
– Fitting a new kitchen or bathroom
– Laying a new floor
– Erecting scaffolding
If you are unsure whether or not your project requires a construction licence, you should check with your local authority.
Exceptions to the construction licence requirement
There are several types of work that can be done without needing to apply for a construction licence from the local authority. These include:
– Work that does not require a building permit: You can carry out work that does not need a building permit without needing a construction licence. This includes work such as painting, decorating, and installing certain types of flooring and lighting.
– Emergency work: You can carry out emergency work without needing a construction licence. This includes work that is necessary to prevent serious damage to a property, or work that is needed to ensure the safety of people in a property.
– Maintenance and repair work: You can carry out maintenance and repair work without needing a construction licence. This includes work such as fixing a leaky roof, or repairing a broken window.
– Work that has already been authorised: You can carry out work that has already been authorised by the local authority without needing a construction licence. This includes work that has been approved as part of a planning application, or work that has been authorised under a building regulations certificate.
Applying for a construction licence
If you want to carry out construction work, you may need to apply for a construction licence from your local authority. The type of work that needs a licence, and the process for applying for one, varies between councils.
In some cases, you may not need a licence at all. For example, you may not need a licence if the work is classed as ‘permitted development’ or if you have ‘building regulations approval’.
If you’re not sure whether you need a licence, you should check with your local authority.