The Building (Local Authority Charges and Amendments Relating to Charging) (England) Regulations 2026

The Regulations come into force on 6 November 2026 except Regulation 11 in relation to higher-risk buildings on 24 September 2027 and in all other cases on 24 March 2027. These Regulations increase the number of functions and activities whereby local authorities can charge for their building control services on a full cost-recovery basis.

New functions and activities where charges can be applied include:

• Accepting, rejecting or considering notices and certificates submitted by private sector Registered Building Control Approvers. To retain payments, LAs will need to notify Registered Building Control Approvers of their decision within the required time period.
• Exercise of powers regarding tests of conformity with Building Regulations.
• Actions relating to issuing notices concerning defective premises, dangerous buildings, ruinous and dilapidated buildings and neglected sites; and demolition of buildings.
• Exercise of powers of entry by authorised officers.
• Securing compliance with Building Act or Building Regulations requirements.
• Imposition of sanctions for contraventions of the Building Act or Building Regulations requirements.

Ashford Borough Council will not be introducing any changes to its current charging structure at this time. Any decision to implement revised or additional fees will be subject to further review, which is currently anticipated to take place in 2027. Should any changes be approved; full details will be made available on the Council's website. Charging schemes will be published online at least seven days beforehand.

Further details can be found on Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government website.