Flat layout ideas

SuzieSue

TranceNRG wrote: »

Another builder came to the flat to give me a quote, last Friday and he told me that I'd need building regulations approval and structural engineer calculations to punch holes in the wall. The other builders didn't mention this (they did mention installing lintels though)
Is this true? What would happen if I didn't apply for building regulations approval?

The second builder is correct. If you don't apply for BR approval you will have to get it retrospectively if you wanted to sell the flat.

TranceNRG

SuzieSue wrote: »

The second builder is correct. If you don't apply for BR approval you will have to get it retrospectively if you wanted to sell the flat.

Does this only apply if I sell the flat within a certain time period (say 10 years after renovations?)

Is it difficult to get this retrospectively? Will I still need structural engineer calculations?

Edit - What are your thoughts on layout 4 compared to layout 3 and current layout?

SuzieSue

TranceNRG wrote: »

Does this only apply if I sell the flat within a certain time period (say 10 years after renovations?)

Is it difficult to get this retrospectively? Will I still need structural engineer calculations?

Edit - What are your thoughts on layout 4 compared to layout 3 and current layout?

You really need to do it properly and get BR approval for your own peace of mind if nothing else - they will check that your builders are doing it properly.

If you are having a lintel fitted then you will usually need a structural engineer.

I haven't had time to look at your plans as I am working, will try later.

Rosetinted

It's much easier and cheaper to get building regulations approval done as work progresses. Typically you apply to the council before work begins and pay a fee and they visit at several points during the build to look at what's being done and advise on any tweaks needed to ensure the finished product will meet regulations. They visit again to sign it off just before you seal everything up and cover it with plaster.

Definitely do not skip the building regulations sign-off. Buyers will want to see a completion certificate to know that the work has been done safely. Doing it after the fact means ripping holes in your walls to expose all the work done so they can check it, and if it's found to not meet regulations, you'll have to redo the work. It's easier and cheaper to do it as you go. If you're removing load-bearing walls, you'll need to get a structural engineer involved too.

TranceNRG

Rosetinted wrote: »

It's much easier and cheaper to get building regulations approval done as work progresses. Typically you apply to the council before work begins and pay a fee and they visit at several points during the build to look at what's being done and advise on any tweaks needed to ensure the finished product will meet regulations. They visit again to sign it off just before you seal everything up and cover it with plaster.

Definitely do not skip the building regulations sign-off. Buyers will want to see a completion certificate to know that the work has been done safely. Doing it after the fact means ripping holes in your walls to expose all the work done so they can check it, and if it's found to not meet regulations, you'll have to redo the work. It's easier and cheaper to do it as you go. If you're removing load-bearing walls, you'll need to get a structural engineer involved too.

I am not going to remove structural walls but if I move the kitchen and bathroom, I will need new windows created so need holes punched through the wall.

As far as I know building regulations approval is only about £200 but I've heard they need engineer drawings which I don't have. If I were to get a structural engineer that'll be another £500 or so

SuzieSue

TranceNRG wrote: »

I am not going to remove structural walls but if I move the kitchen and bathroom, I will need new windows created so need holes punched through the wall.

As far as I know building regulations approval is only about £200 but I've heard they need engineer drawings which I don't have. If I were to get a structural engineer that'll be another £500 or so

The Building Regulations is most important. Ask them if you need a structural engineer.

SuzieSue

TranceNRG wrote: »

I am not going to remove structural walls but if I move the kitchen and bathroom, I will need new windows created so need holes punched through the wall.

As far as I know building regulations approval is only about £200 but I've heard they need engineer drawings which I don't have. If I were to get a structural engineer that'll be another £500 or so

I don't think you need engineer's drawings - you can do them yourself.

TranceNRG

SuzieSue wrote: »

The Building Regulations is most important. Ask them if you need a structural engineer.

OK thank you. I will ring the council and ask them.

TranceNRG

Any thoughts on new layout 4?

TranceNRG

Bump......