Building Regs?? Do I need it???

1andrea

Hi

I have just bought a ground floor studio flat (I complete on the 21st March)

I want to move the kitchen into the living room to make it like an open plan apartment and make the kitchen into a Bedroom.

Will I need Building regs approval for moving the sink?

Will I be able to brick up the back door to make a bedroom window that is fire escapable from?

All the other flats have the same style windows apart from mine so would I need permission to change these so they fit in better ith the excisting building?

Thanks in advance

Andrea

McAzrael

Yes. You need building regs approval for structural changes, including changes to the plumbing and replacing windows and doors.

1andrea

So even if I just decide to move the sink into the living room (3metres away) Will I still need approval?

BobProperty

I'd be more concerned about the fire regulation requirements if you are re-arranging the place like this. There may be serious implications regarding what fire protection is required in what areas.

McAzrael

1andrea wrote: »

So even if I just decide to move the sink into the living room (3metres away) Will I still need approval?

Yes. Not only for the plumbing (have you thought about how you are going to make the falls), but you are also changing the use of two of your rooms, with implications for fire regs (Part B of building regs).

1andrea

McAzrael wrote: »

Yes. Not only for the plumbing (have you thought about how you are going to make the falls), but you are also changing the use of two of your rooms, with implications for fire regs (Part B of building regs).

Thanks for replying!

I have had a plumber out to have and he said the plumbing wouldnt be a problem.

I have called th council today and they are going to send me out an information pack and how to apply.

Can you help me with any examples of what do contravene Fire Reg so I can try to make sure I am not proposing to do something that will be turned down?

Thanks Again Andrea

marybishop

Presuming the property is leasehold you will need to check with the landlord that you are allowed to do these alterations or check your lease.

kittiwoz

Here are the building regs. H (drainage and waster disposal) and P (electrical safety) are relevant, B (fire safety) may well be relevant too.