Important Update: New Local Authority Charges for Building Control Submissions

Important Update for Clients

From 6 November 2026, Local Authorities in England have the power to charge for processing certain notices and certificates submitted by Registered Building Control Approvers (RBCAs) under the new Building (Local Authority Charges and Amendments Relating to Charging) (England) Regulations 2026.

The purpose of these changes is to allow Local Authorities to recover the cost of administering these statutory functions directly from those undertaking building work, rather than through general taxation.

What Does This Mean for Your Project?

Where a Local Authority has adopted a charging scheme, charges may apply to a range of statutory Building Control submissions, including:

• Initial Notices
• Amendment Notices
• Plans Certificates
• Final Certificates

These charges are set by individual Local Authorities and are separate from Harwood Building Control’s own fees.

As a result, charges and payment arrangements may vary between authorities.

Local Authority Charging Scheme

There is no national charging scale. Each Local Authority is responsible for publishing its own charging scheme and determining the fees that apply within its area.

Some authorities have already introduced charges, whilst others are expected to do so over the coming months. As a result, projects in different locations may be subject to different requirements and costs.

Why Timing Matters

Where a Local Authority charge applies, the statutory period for processing an Initial Notice will not begin until the relevant charge has been paid.

This means that failure to make payment could delay the acceptance of an Initial Notice and, in turn, affect project commencement dates.

How Harwood Is Supporting Clients

Harwood Building Control is actively monitoring Local Authority charging schemes and their implications for clients.

We will continue to provide clear guidance on authority-specific requirements, highlight any potential programme impacts, and keep clients informed as further charging schemes are introduced.

Where applicable, we will advise clients of known Local Authority charges and any associated submission requirements at the earliest opportunity.

Further Information

If you have any questions regarding these changes or how they may affect your project, please contact your usual Harwood Building Control representative.