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Building Regulations

The building regulations outline the technical requirements in the design and construction of building works. The provisions for which building regulations may be made are as follows:

  • Securing the health, safety and welfare of people in or about buildings.
  • Making provision for disabled persons.
  • Providing for the conservation of fuel and energy.
  • Providing for the efficient use of resources.
  • Encouragement of good building practice.

Dispensation and relaxation from the building regulations

A building control authority may grant a dispensation form, or a relaxation of, any requirement of the building regulations.  A decision on an application for a dispensation or relaxation must be made within two months of the date of receipt of the application, unless an extension of time is agreed with the applicant. The decision can be appealed to An Bord Pleanála.

Technical guidance documents

These documents are published by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and provide guidance on compliance with the building regulations. They refer to standards and codes for further guidance with respect to the design and construction of buildings. Works carried out in accordance with the technical guidance documents, prima facie, indicate compliance with the building regulations. The adoption of an alternative approach other than that outlined in the guidance documents is not precluded, provided that the relevant requirements of the regulations are complied with.

(The link below links to the technical guidance documents on the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage web site)

The building regulations set out the technical requirements for the design and construction of building works. The building regulations are divided into 12 parts, and for private dwelling houses, the areas to be addressed are as follows:

Building regulations for private dwelling houses
Part Description Requirements
A Structure This requires buildings to be designed and constructed so as to ensure that they can withstand the combined loads without impairing the stability of any part of the building.
B Fire Safety Mains powered fire detection and alarm system, windows sizes for escape or rescue. Adequate fire resistance
C Site Preparation and Resistance To Moisture Site preparation, drainage, dangerous substances (e.g. Radon) Resistance to weather and ground moisture.
D Materials and Workmanship Fitness of materials and adequacy of workmanship.
E Sound Resistance of noise pollution from one dwelling to another.
F Ventilation Ventilation of rooms of specific floor area and for condensation in roofs.
G Hygiene Installation of adequate washing and toilet facilities.
H Drainage And Waste Water Disposal Installation of adequate wastewater drainage and septic tanks.
J Heat Producing Appliances Appliances designed to burn solid fuel, oil or gas. Adequate design and installation of air supplies, exhaust gasses, protection of the building and oil storage tanks.
K Stairways, Ladders, Ramps and Guards Safe and adequate design of stairs and protection from falls
L Conservation Of Fuel And Energy Limiting heat loss, maximise heat gains and controlling output
M Access For People With Disabilities Approach to, access into and circulation within a dwelling, access to electrical switches, etc. Also the provision of sanitary accommodation.

Persons should always obtain professional advice for their specific situation and should consult the current technical guidance documents and current regulations.

In accordance with the Building Control Regulations, a commencement notice must be submitted before the commencement of works.

All queries on building control issues and building regulations can be directed to the Clare County Council Building Control Section at (065) 6846302.

Content managed by: Fire and Building Control Department

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