New uPVC windows

Pinkangel

My 1960s house has old uPVC bay windows that I'd like to replace. The main issue is that the survey I had done when buying the house contains the following paragraph:

"The various lintels appear finished in brick, with no obvious indication of formal lintel support now required under Part L Building Regulations. Without damaging investigations we are unable to fully verify that the hidden lintels are free from rot or other defects. Our external inspection revealed no apparent deflection of brickwork above the respective openings to suggest adverse support, despite reveals of up to 50mm. No surface problems were evident internally or externally. However, if the existing windows are to be replaced, some upgrading of lintels should not be ruled out."

I've never had windows replaced before, so am not sure how I would go about finding out whether new lintels are needed as part of the job - would this be a window fitter that would advise and carry out the work? Or would I need to contact a builder?

Additionally, do you know how new lintels could be accessed/installed given that the area directly above the lower ground floor window is covered in tiling (which runs up to the next level bay window), and the area directly above the upper window is within the fascias/soffits?

Hopefully these pics will make things a bit clearer:

http://imageshack.com/a/img924/1275/aosLLz.jpg
http://imageshack.com/a/img922/5463/BynQpE.jpg
http://imageshack.com/a/img922/6375/9MfJIS.jpg

Many thanks.

EssexExile

It looks like a pretty standard house so I expect any local companies will be familiar with any problems that may be encountered. I have a 1950 house which doesn't have any lintels supporting the outer leaf of brickwork, when windows are replaced if there are any problems they simply fit some support while they have the windows out. Your survey says they can see no problems, which is a good thing.

thebaldwindowfitter

These bay windows will have a timber frame inbetween windows and behind the tile hanging ,The replacement bay windows will need load bearing pole kits in the corners were the front sections meet the side frames nothing to worry about a regular occurance

Pinkangel

Thanks both, from what you've said it sounds like it might not be as big an issue as I'd been fearing. I had visions of the entire tiled bay section of the house needing to be removed to access the relevant areas, but hopefully that won't be the case.