In short
It can. Replacing roof coverings on flat roofs is on the government's list of work that may need building regulations approval, and the roofing trade body's guidance says flat roof overlays are building work too. Check before work starts, or use a contractor who will handle it.
This is a job for our Flat Roofs service.
Replacement and overlays both count
The government lists replacing roof coverings on pitched and flat roofs as work that can need approval. The National Federation of Roofing Contractors goes further for flat roofs, stating in its client guide that flat roof overlays constitute building work and should be assessed against the relevant Building Regulations.
Why it matters on a flat roof
Replacing a flat roof often means opening up the deck and the insulation beneath it. That is the point where the regulations on structure, weather-tightness and insulation come into play.
Who applies
If the work is done by someone registered with a competent person scheme, they can self-certify it. Otherwise the application goes to a building control body before the work starts.
What we do
We tell you when we quote a flat roof what approval the job needs and how it will be handled.