Would a small velux window compromise structural integrity of the roof?

alchemistkevin

We're buy a house, due for exchange today/tomorrow.

It's just come to light that the vendors fitted a small velux window in a roof to let more light into a room.

They don't have any paperwork or building regs certificate for the job.
They're happy to offer an indemnity insurance if there's a problem with the LA in the future.

However, the BIG question I have in my mind is: Would this compromise the structural integrity of the roof?

Does putting in velux windows require special changes to be made to the roof?

Should I have a structural survey carried out? (not forgetting that this will cost me money and will put off the exchange date until we get a report)

BitterAndTwisted

What kind of survey has been carried out on the property?

WestonDave

How small is small, and how long ago was it installed.

One that is small enough to fit between the beams (roughly 30 cm across) isn't going to affect the structure of the roof. The bigger it gets the more alterations you have to make cutting beams to fit it in which is where potential problems might occur. I'd personally get a roofer round to look at it even if you have to pay for his time - he'd be the one putting it right so he'd know. Probably worth asking him about other jobs you might need to get done so he doesn't focus unduly on this issue thinking its his only way of getting a job! (e.g. the soffits, loose tiles etc!).

If its been in 6 years there won't be a problem with planning but its probably worth taking the insurance anyway.

alchemistkevin

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alchemistkevin

BitterAndTwisted wrote: »

What kind of survey has been carried out on the property?

Home buyers survey

alchemistkevin

WestonDave wrote: »

How small is small, and how long ago was it installed.

One that is small enough to fit between the beams (roughly 30 cm across) isn't going to affect the structure of the roof. The bigger it gets the more alterations you have to make cutting beams to fit it in which is where potential problems might occur. I'd personally get a roofer round to look at it even if you have to pay for his time - he'd be the one putting it right so he'd know. Probably worth asking him about other jobs you might need to get done so he doesn't focus unduly on this issue thinking its his only way of getting a job! (e.g. the soffits, loose tiles etc!).

If its been in 6 years there won't be a problem with planning but its probably worth taking the insurance anyway.

Looking at the roof - it goes across 4 roof tiles - assuming they're 165mm, it's about 66cms or 660mm

The problem with doing anything else - apart from asking on the forums is - I will be delaying the chain - which might potentially break --- for what might be a non-issue.

I have no previous experience of builders as we live in a flat, I've looked on Velux's site and their instructions to fit the window seem quite simple - what's not clear to me is: Generally, would fitting a velux window of this site compromise the structural integrity of the roof?

G_M

I don't see how anyone here can possibly answer, not having seen the window/roof!

One that is small enough to fit between the beams (roughly 30 cm across) isn't going to affect the structure of the roof.

True - assuming a) the beams on this building are 30 cm across : some buildings vary. and b) the window was fitted between the beams rather than a beam being cut.

Either be guided by the length of time since the window was fitted (if 20 years ago and no problems have developed in that time, you're probobly safe), or by an expert (surveyor).

Arthritic_Toe

I think you're worrying too much. A structural survey would probably cost you twice as much as it would to fix any problems (and there probably aren't any). Roofs are pretty simple things.

(I am not a builder!)

pararct

I have 3 (larger) velux windows in my roof and only had one small problem in 5 years.The lead surround needed flattening down as it was allowing a little water to enter. Took a roofer 5 minutes and £10 to sort out.

You have nothing to worry about but for peace of mind take the indemnity and move on with your life.....

betsie

you do not need planning or building regs to put a velux in. If there is no evidence of damp inside around the frame I would assume it has been fitted fine.

tbs624

alchemistkevin wrote: »

We're buy a house, due for exchange today/tomorrow.

It's just come to light that the vendors fitted a small velux window in a roof to let more light into a room.

So you didn't notice this window prior to almost getting to exchange. ie when you looked around the property? Or do you mean you hadn't realised there would be an issue with the paperwork?

alchemistkevin wrote: »

They don't have any paperwork or building regs certificate for the job.
They're happy to offer an indemnity insurance if there's a problem with the LA in the future.

However, the BIG question I have in my mind is: Would this compromise the structural integrity of the roof?

The indemnity would not cover you for any problems with the installation itself.

The vendors must know who fitted it so have you asked them? Velux themselves recommend that a professional installer is used. Use http://www.findabuilder.co.uk/ and get someone to check it if it is worrying you.What did your surveyor say about it?