Building Regs - Headache

hex2

butterflysam please let us know how you get on. work on mine was done 1995/1996 by the previous owner but I may have problems proving that so very interested to see how you get on.

JennyW_2

you will definitely need bldgs regs approval to ensure that the work has been carried out to a safe standard. I found this:

Although UK planning permission will not be required for erecting an internal partition, UK building regulations still need to be satisfied, these cover such aspects as ventilation, fire safety and drainage (if appropriate). It is worth discussing the plans with the local building control office for guidance as to the requirements and whether formal building regulation approval will be required.

Whatever the purpose of the partition, a number of points need to be considered:


Lighting - natural daylight may not be necessary although it is often desirable. If an existing window is not going to be included in the partitioned off area, a new window could be added in an outside wall. Alternatively glazing could be incorporated into the partition to 'borrow' light from the adjacent room, this can easily be incorporated along the top of the partition.
Ventilation - although a window is probably the most common form of ventilation, it is quite possible to include an electrical extractor fan to ventilate the new area.
Access to the room - generally a new doorway will need to be built into the new partition, various options are possible - a standard internal (30 in) hinged door, two half doors, a sliding door or a curtain - limitations of space may be overcome by careful planning. Remember that furniture may need to pass through the new doorway.
Electrics - often when a room is divided, it is necessary to change the ceiling lights. The existing light may need to be repositioned and a new light and switch may need to be added in the 'new' area. The switch will usually be positioned by the side the door in the partition, so the wiring and switch will need to be incorporated into the partition during construction. Alternatively a ceiling mounted pull switch may be added - this is a UK requirement where the room is to be used as a washroom or shower.
There may be a need for additional wall sockets on one or both sides of the partition; it's generally easier to build these into the partition rather than adding new sockets to existing walls.
Outlets may also be required on the partition for heaters, shower units etc.

butterflysam

Wish me luck !!!!

After the stressful start to the selling of our house, we have submitted our application to the council for our building regulations certificate.

They are coming out tommorow, to make sure that all the work we had done over 3 years ago is up to standard. I cannot believe how stressful it all is, and expensive £120 for a piece of paper. I'll let you know how it all goes.

Also, we have had the house on the market for 10 days now and have our 4th viewing this afternoon. Is that good or just average?

Thanks
Sam x

butterflysam

pheeeeeeeew!! :j

Guy from the council came round today and passed the work we have had done with flying colours.
He literally walked in, opened both windows in both rooms and walked out again. It was his first day today, so I was lucky and got a really nice inspector. And to think we paid £120.00 for him to open 2 windows :mad:

At least it is all done now, and we know that no matter what it will not hold up our sale in the long run.

Sam