Connectivity Plan for a Single Dwelling or Self-Build

Does Part R apply to a single new house?

Yes. Requirements RA1 and RA2 of Part R apply to the erection of a new dwelling, and Approved Document R Volume 1 specifically lists self-build new dwellings as being in scope. Whether you're building one house, a replacement dwelling or a small group of plots, the home needs gigabit-ready physical infrastructure, and the Building Regulations application needs a connectivity plan.

That information is set out in a connectivity plan. For a single dwelling it doesn't need to be complicated, but it does need to be clear and complete, and it needs to go in before the relevant work starts.

What Part R asks of a self-builder

• Gigabit-ready infrastructure (RA1): a duct or other route from the network termination point inside your home, through an access point, to the operator's network distribution point. This is often where the site meets the public highway. If you don't have rights over the land in between, it goes as close as is reasonably practicable.
• A gigabit-capable connection (RA2): a working connection capable of at least 1,000 Mbps, provided it can be secured for no more than £2,000 (including VAT, after any operator contribution).
• A fallback if gigabit isn't available: the next fastest connection within the cap: high-speed (30 Mbps+) first, then USO standard. The RA1 infrastructure is still needed.
• Power at the termination point: Approved Document R says a fixed electrical supply should be provided at the network termination point.

What goes into a connectivity plan for one home?

• The site address, plot details and who's involved
• The proposed infrastructure route, ideally marked on your site plan
• The network operator and type of connection you're planning
• Where the infrastructure ends, and why, if it can't reach the distribution point
• Evidence from at least two suitable operators if you're relying on the cost cap or an exemption

Approved Document R includes a model form in Appendix B. See template vs professional plan for the pros and cons of filling it in yourself.

Self-build tips

• Talk to network operators early. Lead times for new connections can be long, especially on rural plots, and you'll need their responses for the plan.
• Plan the duct with your groundworks. Laying it with the drainage and service trenches costs far less than digging again later.
• Think about where the router goes. The termination point is usually inside the home in an open area. Some self-builders add wired data points to key rooms at first fix.
• Don't confuse the costs. The £2,000 cap covers the RA2 connection. It doesn't cover your RA1 ducting or the cost of preparing the connectivity plan.
• Keep every email. Operator replies, quotes and refusals are your evidence if gigabit isn't available within the cap.

Why use us for your self-build?

Self-builders already juggle architects, planners, Building Control and trades. We take what you already have (drawings, the site address and any operator correspondence) and turn it into a clear plan Building Control can approve. You get a fixed price up front (from £249.99 + VAT for a standard plan), real people to speak to, and you pay after the work is completed.

For the full rules, read our Part R and Approved Document R guide or see what Building Control need.

Self-build questions

Related Part R guides