New Build Property - Building Regs Contravention?

RPF1992

Hi All,
I have just moved into a new build flat. We are having issues with soundproofing / noise travelling from our neighbours properties. The developers have been less than forthcoming and have stopped all comms with us. 

We’ve started speaking with the Building Control Manager of our local council and have chatted with the architects who have given us the most up to date plans that we’re submitted for council sign off. 

We’ve noticed that the plans submitted are drastically different to the current layout of our property and concerned this is the reason for sound issues. 

To give you an example, the original plan had an en-suite which is no longer there and the utility cupboard has moved across the other side of the property (containing boiler, underfloor heating pumps, electric circuit board etc).
I’m wondering if this drastic change of plans are allowed or are they a contravention of the building regs? 

We’ve been told by a contractor of the developers that the property layout changed twice due to issues with space and that they have left pipe work in place where the en-suite used to be, meaning that there are just waste/water pipes left in position but with no facilities, which is concerning! 

Thanks in advance for your help!

lincroft1710

Is the unused pipework visible? If so is it capped? What are you looking for as an outcome?

RPF1992

Pipework isn’t visible, so have no idea if it’s been called. All we have been told by the contractors is that an en-suite has been installed then take out again but pipework a lot of has been left in. 

The outcome is to ultimately find the source of the sound issue and secondly, ensure that the flat we’ve paid for has been built within building regs. 

Can you drastically change a flat layout after approval on completely different plans? 

ComicGeek

Building control don't just look at the plans, they will also have come out and inspected the site. So likely that any changes to the plans were inspected and agreed on site with the building control officer. If you have a building control completion certificate then that is against the completed scheme, not the original drawings - you shouldn't have been able to complete/move in without building regs sign-off.

Noise is a separate issue, and a common problem. Doesn't mean that it hasn't been built in accordance with building regs, very difficult to eliminate all noise transfer - that's why detached properties can charge a premium.

Doozergirl

Yes you can change the layout.  Building Control will concern themselves with the way that something is built.   They won't concern themselves with the layout unless it affects accessibility or escape means and triggers a new or different requirement.  

Ensuites and cupboards would not.  Moving studwork is not going to affect soundproofing measures above the ceilings of the flat.