What happens after I submit my application? How can I check the status of my application?
To help you know what to expect, here’s a clear overview of what happens after your application is submitted and how you can stay updated.
1. Validation Check
Our Business Support Team reviews every application to make sure all the required information and documents have been provided.
If anything is missing, we will contact Dutyholders.
2. Registration & Fee Confirmation
Once validation is complete, your application is formally registered. Dutyholders will receive an email confirming:
- the application reference number
- the fees that apply
- how to submit payment
3. Receipt of Fee
When your fee has been received, Dutyholders are sent a formal acknowledgement confirming the application is valid.
For a Full Plans Application
Your plans will be passed to a Registered Building Inspector for a compliance check before work starts on site.
We aim to complete a plan check within 10 working days.
How We Keep Dutyholders Informed
As part of our responsibilities under the Operational Standard Rules, we will issue an inspection report within 5 days of each site inspection.
You will continue to receive:
- E-mailed inspection reports
- A direct link to your application record
These updates help you stay fully informed at every stage of your project.
If you need an update, you also have the option to contact our Business Support Team on 0330 024 9355.
How will I respond to you if you have questions on my application?
If you need to respond to plan check comments, any required information or next steps will be clearly explained in our correspondence.
We will advise you on what is needed and how to provide it, so you can respond quickly and keep your application moving.
Upload plans & supporting documents
If you are using one of our online application forms, there is a dedicated section where you can upload plans and supporting documents as part of your submission.
If you have already submitted an online form and need to send us additional documents, drawings, or information to support your application, you can do so using our online contact form:
Prefer to Email Us?
You can also send information directly by email to theteam@southernbcp.co.uk if you prefer.
Please make sure you include:
- Your application reference number
- The site address
- A clear description of what the additional information relates to
This helps us match your documents to the correct application and respond promptly.
Can I amend my current application?
Before You Make Any Changes
This page provides guidance to help you understand if you can amend an existing Building Control application or when a new application may be required.
We are always happy to advise on your specific situation. If you’re unsure, please contact us — our team will guide you through the simplest and most appropriate route. It’s always better to check first to avoid delays or the need for additional applications later on.
When are amendments suitable?
You can amend a Building Control application when the overall type of work has not changed, and you are simply updating or correcting information.
You can request an amendment for changes such as:
- Minor alterations to the layout
- Moving or resizing windows and doors
- Changing materials or construction details
- Updating structural engineer calculations
- Providing updated drawings or specifications
- Correcting applicant, agent, or other dutyholder information
When a New Application maybe Required?
When the proposed changes go beyond the scope of the original project, such as significant increases in size, structure, complexity, or risk, you could need a new application.
1) If work has fundamentally changed, for example:
- Changing a single storey extension to a two storey extension
- Converting a garage into a habitable room and adding an extension
- Adding a new outbuilding not previously included
- Changing a simple loft alteration to a full dormer conversion
2) The footprint or floorspace has significantly increased
3) Major structural changes have been added, for example:
- Additional steel beams
- A different foundation design
- Raising the roof height
- Adding another floor
4) The original application has been withdrawn
5) The project no longer fits the original application type, for example:
- A Building Notice is no longer suitable because the work has become more complex
- It now requires Full Plans approval
- It includes higher risk or fire engineered elements
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How to Request an Amendment
If you need to make changes or submit a new application, we recommend you speak with your Building Inspector or contact our Business Support Team who can guide you.
