Building regulation requirement for installing a real fire fireplace

Steve78

Hi Guys,

In our lounge, m planning to have real fire. We have the chimney swept by HETAS and NACS registered guy as he certified that the chimney is suitable for real fire.

We are planning to put a marble surround, granite hearth and a basket (for solid fuel). we are buying the surround etc from a local shop, the guy said he will come and fit ithe surround, slips and hearth for £200 (just fitting).

I am wondering whether there is any legal requirement for have the surround fitted by a HETAS registered guy (for building regulation and control) or anyone can fit in the surround, hearth etc? Can someone please guide me about it?

Thanks,
Steve

Steve78

Can someone reply please ?

Thanks

WaveyDave_2

Don't think so, think anyone can do it as its not gas. Might be worth getting your HETAS guy to check it over anyway, even if he doesn't install it.

snapper_daz

Hi Steve,

No problem with doing it yourself, but worth a quick phone call to your local building control officer first.
Our local office were fine about me converting the fireplace back to solid fuel as it was one originally, but your local council may interpret the regulations differently.

One thing to watch though is your constructional hearth is OK.
If you have a solid concrete floor then you should be OK, but if its suspended wooden flooring, you need to check sizes.
I had to cut away part of my wooden floor and fill with concrete to make mine bigger...

Solid Fuel association are very helpful on the phone with any questions and have some useful guides on their website: http://www.solidfuel.co.uk/pdfs/index.htm

Cheers

d.

Johnhowell

We went to a local family run fireplace store and looked at what is available. Asked/Answered lots of questions about a new real fire fireplace. One thing we did learn was with a stone hearth is an expansion joint will be required due to the greater heat generated by a real fire, when compared to gas and electric fires. We went for brick and tile hearth - does not need an expansion joint.

Also, if the fire back is replaced then the chimney will have to be signed off by the installer/competent person. In our case, the existing fire back is in good condition and can remain so they do not have to "inspect" and sign off the chimney. We have double glazing and they said that air bricks would have to be installed in the same room to met Part K(?) ventilation rules. They would cut two 6" dia holes for the vents!

Good luck,
John