Building Regulation Charges explained

The charges for Building Regulation work are designed to cover the cost of providing the service and depend on what type of work you are doing.

If the work is within Eastbourne then the service is provided by the East Sussex Building Control Partnership. You can find more information by visiting East Sussex Building Control Partnership.

Methods of establishing the charge

There are two methods of establishing the charge for building works:

1. Standard charges (a set cost)
2. Individually determined charges (quotation by Building Control)

• standard charges are for common domestic projects
• if the type of work is not listed as a standard charge, the fee is based on the estimated cost of work from a tradesperson
• larger schemes will be individually determined

We will give an individually determined quotation within five working days from the date of request. The quotation is valid for six months.

For a Full plans application:

• you need to pay the Plan Charge when you submit your application. You will be sent an invoice shortly after you have submitted your application.
• you will receive an invoice for the Inspection Charge upon commencement of works, after we've carried out our first inspection.

For a Building Notice application:

• you need to pay the total Building Notice charge when you submit your application.
• the fee covers all standard site inspections and a completion certificate.

There is an extra charge for large projects submitted under a Building Notice. This is because of the added complexity of ensuring compliance with the regulations.

Regularisation applications:

• For works where an application was not made at the time and are considered unauthorised building work.
• These are charged at 140% of the total Building Notice charge (no VAT payable).

Standard charges

• Table A - for new dwellings not exceeding 3 storeys or 250m2
• Table B - for domestic extensions, loft conversions and garages
• Table C- for alterations to existing single dwelling houses

Works under categories B and C can be combined for a multiple work discount where the works will be undertaken at the same time.

Application charges guidance notes

You can download guidance notes on application charges below.

Fees valid from 16 February 2026

Lewes District Council Building Control Charges Scheme February 2026 (PDF, 185 KB)

Table A

Table B

Standard charges for domestic extension, loft conversions and garages

Table C

Standard charges for domestic alterations to a single building