Detailed regulations cover specific topics including: structural integrity, fire protection, accessibility, energy performance, acoustic performance, protection against falls, electrical and gas safety.
They also lay standards for drains, ventilation, protection against the ingress of water and protection against contamination including methane and radon gas.
The building regulations are defined by the English and Welsh Governments.
The Building Regulations Advisory Committee (BRAC) advises the Secretary of State in England on making building regulations and setting standards for the design and construction of buildings.