Are Building Regulations the same abroad as they are in the UK?

[daveyjones]

I am currently thinking of moving over to either Spain or France in the next 6 months and would like to build my own house over there. Now I know in this country new builds have to meet certain building regulations and that you need planning permission. I just need to know if the same rules apply abroad? I have checked many sites but cant find any information about it. I did find a useful site: Building Regulations, but it only has information on the UK.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Many Thanks

[SteveF]

Hi Davey

Lucky you....i am really envious of your situation!

Simple answer to your question is NO!

I dont know the full details of the regs in France but i do know that "Building regulations" as we in the UK understand them do not exist. There are standards that apply now throughout the European Union that should be enforced however i do not think that the French have the inspection system that is available in the UK.

In Spain however standards have dramatically improved over recent years (I have built a number of small developments in Spain) and if you appoint an Architect directly that is a member of the Order of Architects then they have an obligation to design in accordance with very up to date standards and monitor the build to conform compliance. There is also a 10 year construction warranty (Insurance) available that in my opinion provides for better cover and peace of mind that the UK equivalent i.e. the NHBC.

With regards to planning i believe it is important to get advice relative to each region in which you are considering building as the rules do vary region to region.

Good luck in your venture.

SteveF

[Chuck Sidfrum]

It's no help to you, but the standards for a new home in Australia are higher regarding floors, and in Germany are higher in nearly all areas, including tiling for example.