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I am thinking of having a single storey detached garage built either using brick or block & render. Just to give me some ideas before getting quotes is there a general rule of thumb for the depth and width of the foundations, I appreciate different ground types.

Does the builder giving the quote decide from local knowledge the correct depth / width and is this then passed to the Building Control people or does the Building Control decide on the sizes?

I understand about getting planning permission but not sure where the Building Control come into the picture. Do you submit seperate plans to BC once permission is granted? I would like to produce the plans myself along with the builder to try and save some money.

Does anyone see any problems with this.

Although there are rules.
It is always best to take your proposal in outline, before you do a lot of work and ask them what they expect.
Get them onside, make friends, they will save you both time and money.
Perry

thanks Perry sounds like good advice

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Hi,

If your proposed single storey, brick/block built, detached garage has an internal floor area of less than 30sq mtrs, then it would be classified as an exempt structure under Building Regulations, and as such you would not need to submit a Building Regulations.

If the size of your garage exceeds 30sq m you will need to submit a formal Building Regulations application, although I would encourage you to wait until your planning application has been processed and determined.

In relation to a foundation depth. The foundation solution is dependant upon the ground conditions encountered. Most builders tend to base their quotations on a 1m deep excavation (probably 450-600mm in width). Although bad ground conditions, clay subsoils with trees nearby, deep drainage, etc, could all influence the foundation depth.

I would suggest that you discuss your proposals with your Local Building Control Department who will be able to confirm if the proposed structure is classified as exempt under the regulations, and the likely ground conditions on your site.

Hope this helps