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Do you need building regs to block up a fireplace?
suebfg
Posts: 404 Forumite
Thanks in advacnce
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Comments
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As a rule of thumb, I generally reckon that 5 complete sets of Building Regs is enough to block 2 fireplaces.You might as well ask the Wizard of Oz to give you a big number as pay a Credit Referencing Agency for a so-called 'credit-score'0
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Working fireplaces are highly desirable and very fashionable right now. Why block it up. You don't have to light a fire, you could put plants in the aperture, store wine, or make some sort of interesting display.
You can use an inflated balloon in the chimney to cut down drafts, if they are a issue. Google for instructions.
If you must block it up then do be sure to allow adequate ventilation, ie air bricks. Blocked fireplaces without air bricks are a prime cause of damp.
Check with your local council re building regs.0 -
lessonlearned wrote: »
Check with your local council re building regs.
They aren't needed.
Also if the house is being rented out, or the fireplace is a 70s/80s monstrosity it may be a good idea to remove it and block it up.
One of my landlords' wasn't impressed by someone trying to start a fire in a fireplace in one of his properties. It was dangerous as the chimney hadn't been examined.I'm not cynical I'm realistic
(If a link I give opens pop ups I won't know I don't use windows)0 -
They aren't needed.
Also if the house is being rented out, or the fireplace is a 70s/80s monstrosity it may be a good idea to remove it and block it up.
One of my landlords' wasn't impressed by someone trying to start a fire in a fireplace in one of his properties. It was dangerous as the chimney hadn't been examined.
Thanks for confirming no need for building regs.
The OP didn't mention whether or not the fireplace was in a rental property but yes I can see how the average landlord would want to block fireplaces for convenience.
I know this is purely a personal thing but I find a sitting room without a fireplace seems very cold and sterile. It doesn't have to be an open fire, a gas fire or electric fire can be just as good. I just feel that they do give the room a nice focal point.
Back to real fires.
They are definitely enjoying a surge in popularity, as a wonderful focal point, as a source of additional heating and also as a useful "back up" when boilers break down.
They can also be very "green" if you burn wood rather than coal, wood being a sustainable source of fuel.
My new house has a woodburner, lovely and toasty......:rotfl:0 -
We are renting and have a beautiful red tiled fireplace in the front room, landlord said we could use it but to be honest I'm a bit scared of the thing so we leave it as it is with a cushion stuffed up it.
xx0
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