Building Regulations Needed?

Jumblebumble

troffasky said:

At least one LA agrees with your builder:

https://www.thurrock.gov.uk/building-control-for-residential-alterations/internal-alterations

"Total removal of chimney breast and stack: No"

but as others have said, the chimney breast might be providing needed lateral restraint to the wall.

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Personally I would never alter my house structurally without Building Control  what ever a builder claims as I know I would have issues when I come to sell
I would also be mindful of the fact that the link quoted is not in any way definitive"
"The following examples are for guidance only

sho_me_da_money

Ive emailed the council but this topic is debated pretty hard online. Apparently a total removal doesnt require regs. I have asked nevertheless.

Doozergirl

This isn't about a piece of paper.  It's about safety. 

You should be speaking to a structural engineer because *the builder is not qualified* to know whether the house remains structurally stable once the chimney breast has gone.  Every house is different and even something that may not originally have been structural can become so over time.   

I too have been doing the same for 20 years and it's a simple fact that I would not touch such a substantial part of a building without seeking professional guidance.  I know what I'm qualified to do and what I am not!  

When you go to sell this house, you will need to declare the work.  Any surveyor is going to out the standard clause of ensuring that any consents are in place before purchasing.    If there is argument online then any solicitor (who often know very little about the nuances of building regs and planning) is going to ask for a certificate.  Now, you can offer an indemnity policy, but it really is best to have all your ducks in a row as some buyers can and do get scared and will walk regardless of whether it is structurally sound.  To them, the paperwork is the proof of safety.   

It's peace of mind for everyone.  

sho_me_da_money

Thanks all.