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Upstairs window regulations

We are in the process of renovating a property including replacement windows.  We aim to sell on when complete. 

The builders have replaced the upstairs fully opening windows with windows that only open at the top.  I was under the impression that this was against fire regulations but they have come back saying they need to be top openers only because the window sills are less than 800mm from the floor and there is therefore a falling risk.

Is that correct, can we legally have windows that don't function as a fire escape upstairs in this case?

Many thanks in advance for your help.

Comments

  • propertyrental
    propertyrental Posts: 3,391 Forumite
    1,000 Posts First Anniversary Name Dropper
    edited 17 June 2024 at 4:01PM
    Are your builders members of FENSA or CERTASS?

    If yes they should know (or you could ask FENSA).

    If no, how are they going to give you  building Regs certificate to show your buyers?
  • No I doubt they are. 
    They are saying to get buildings regs we would need to brick up the lower part of the window to make it over 800mm from the floor. I would expect this to be quite expensive but is it necessary? 
  • sheramber
    sheramber Posts: 21,693 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 10,000 Posts I've been Money Tipped! Name Dropper
    Contact Building Control for your area and ask them.
  • propertyrental
    propertyrental Posts: 3,391 Forumite
    1,000 Posts First Anniversary Name Dropper
    edited 17 June 2024 at 4:20PM
    well buildings regs is necessary and a legal requirement.. if they are members (check!) they can sign off BRs for the windows.
    If not your counil BRs team will check when they check the other work.
    They ARE involved yes?
    as for your Q, contact FENSA and ask about the fire regs etc for the windows.

  • 35har1old
    35har1old Posts: 1,747 Forumite
    1,000 Posts Second Anniversary Name Dropper
    Walkera99 said:
    We are in the process of renovating a property including replacement windows.  We aim to sell on when complete. 

    The builders have replaced the upstairs fully opening windows with windows that only open at the top.  I was under the impression that this was against fire regulations but they have come back saying they need to be top openers only because the window sills are less than 800mm from the floor and there is therefore a falling risk.

    Is that correct, can we legally have windows that don't function as a fire escape upstairs in this case?

    Many thanks in advance for your help.
    Windows could have a solid panel of glass bring it up to a height to prevent the falling risk and then have the opening sash above allowing for escape in the event of fire
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