| If
you've been following the previous instalments of our
guide to loft conversion, you've probably already built
up a good picture of how your potential loft room will
look and feel. But we have often mentioned the
need to look at the various statutory regulations (in
UK) which come into play for loft conversion projects
and we'll give you a quick overview in this issue. |
 |
There
are two areas of legislation involved - Planning
Permission and Building Regulations. Most loft
conversions won't need Planning Permission as they
probably fall within permitted development rights,
unless you are thinking of putting in a dormer window,
changing the appearance of the building, or if you're in
a Conservation area, an Area of Outstanding Natural
Beauty or if it's a Listed Building. It's always a
good idea to have a chat with your local planning
officer first. |
| However,
the work will need to comply with the current Building
Regulations. The purpose of the Building Regs is
to secure reasonable standards of health and safety for
people in and around buildings. As the regulations
covering loft conversions are fairly detailed, we will
just outline the main areas for you here and you can
find out more by talking to your local Building Control
officer. |
|
Key areas are:
|
| Stairway/access |
Structural
Stability |
| Thermal
Insulation |
Means
of escape in the event of fire |
| Sound
Insulation |
Ventilation |
| Daylight
& View |
Fire
Resistance |
| Smoke
Detectors |
Resistance
to Moisture |
|
We have already touched
on many of these areas, but it is important that any planned
project complies with the regulations and that Building
Regulations consent is granted before you start work.
Helpfully, the Building Control officers often adopt a
reasonably flexible approach to the unique requirements of
each specific project. If you have a two storey house,
converting the loft effectively turns it into a three storey
dwelling and the regulations focus strongly on fire
precautions. At least one window will need to be used as
an escape window and self closing devices will need to be
fitted to the doors enclosing the staircase to form a
semi-protected route to a ground floor exit. The door to the
loft room itself must be a self-closing fire door. Mains
or battery operated smoke detectors will need to be provided
at each level in the hall or landing. The regulations
are really just common sense and designed to protect you, your
family and your property.
If you are going to use
the services of an architect, builder or loft conversion
specialist, they should all be fully aware of the current
regulations and the specific requirements for your project.
We will look in more detail at who, and where, to go to for
help and advice in the next part. |
