Flat Renovation Advice

gerg84

Hi All,

Not sure where to post such a question so apologies if this is not the correct forum!

I would like to ask a couple of questions in regards to some renovation works I am considering on my property.

The building is a 70s build purpose built block of flats. I own share of freehold of my ground floor flat.

I have a huge living area which I am considering relocating my kitchen into so I can using the existing kitchen space as a home study/office and have an open plan kitchen/lounge area.

Separate work from my relaxation space!

I know I can't relocate the boiler or washing machine as I'm not allowed to make holes in the external brickwork. That's fine as I will leave these in their existing locations and build a cupboard around to conceal.

I am not knocking down any walls, nor changing any door positions.

My questions are:

- Would I need permission from the freehold to relocate the kitchen if I am not moving the boiler or washing machine?

- Do I need to get in touch with Building Control and/or my local council to approve the works? Or to get the works certified?

Thanks in advance

MovingForwards

You will need to read through your title deeds and see what you need to ask permission to do.

Have a look on your council website as that will say what needs permission / sign off etc.

sxd901

Drainage alterations will require bg regs approval.  Also flat layout changes may constitute a material alteration and will also require bg regs particularly as the means of escape has changed.  How do you escape from the new study if there is a fire in the kitchen/lounge?

Le_Kirk

If putting a cupboard (or any enclosure) round a boiler, make sure to have adequate ingress of air for the gas/oil to burn.  The boiler installation instruction manual should advise and, if you don't have the manual, they are usually available to view on-line.

scottishblondie

You definitely need approval from Building Control for this.
I'm not understanding why you can't move the washing machine?  You'll need a water supply and drainage for the kitchen sink anyway, so if you can manage that without making holed in the external walls then you should also be able to hook up a washing machine. 

cybervic

Your lease will detail what you are allowed to do without permission. In my block, I'm allow to change drainage location in side my flat so long I don't touch the main drainage pipe for the whole building. It's essentially an extension of drainage in the kitchen so you don't need building control approval on that. With regards to boiler, I am almost certain you will need freeholder's approval for drilling out ventilation hole.

carefullycautious

Would it not be easier to leave the kitchen where it is and partition off a study area in the lounge. I used to live in a flat that had a large lounge and a neighbour did this to create another bedroom. A lot easier than moving pipes or creating drainage