Can we fit our own fire surround to open fire?

jaspercat2002

Hi

When we moved into our house the open fire in the lounge had an ugly brick surround that was coming loose in places and as we have two small children we decided to rip the bricks out straight away, which we have done and replastered the chimney breast.

At the moment we still have the actual fireplace in but no surround. We would ideally have liked to change the actual fireplace and restarted from scratch but after having made a few enquiries this is just not something we can afford at the moment.

What I am wondering is if its ok for us to purchase a new surround piece, hearth and mantle and fit them ourselves? (DH is a pretty competent DIYer) I keep coming across references to HETAS and making sure any new fireplace is fitted by a member in order to comply with building regs and safety but can't seem to find out whether this still applies if its just the surround & hearth we are replacing. The actual fireplace won't be touched.

Hope this makes sense and that someone can help. Many thanks in advance

Zoe

Flyfisher_2

As you are only replacing the surround there should not be any problem in doing it yourselves. There are building regulations that will need complying with if you have a wooden suspended floor below the hearth.
some info here- http://www.diydoctor.org.uk/projects/newfire.htm