Dept of Environment

HereAndThere

Hi

I have been thinking about converting my attic but want to follow all the current rules and regulations so that I have no problems selling in the future.

My house is a timber built house with an attic truss roof.

I read the following article from the dept of environment and would like some advice.

Loft Conversions Protect Your Family

It has a lot of fire regulations etc in it?

Does anyone know if this is a legal requirement and the likely extra cost of following all these regulations? 30 minute fire proofing of the second floor ceiling, extend existing stairway with fire-resisting walls or partitions etc... They seem a bit excessive?

I want to do it right but just wondering if everything is required?

Thanks

sinnerboy

HereAndThere wrote: »

Hi

I have been thinking about converting my attic but want to follow all the current rules and regulations so that I have no problems selling in the future.

My house is a timber built house with an attic truss roof.

I read the following article from the dept of environment and would like some advice.

Loft Conversions Protect Your Family

It has a lot of fire regulations etc in it?

Does anyone know if this is a legal requirement and the likely extra cost of following all these regulations? 30 minute fire proofing of the second floor ceiling, extend existing stairway with fire-resisting walls or partitions etc... They seem a bit excessive?

I want to do it right but just wondering if everything is required?

Thanks

Simply put yes. I have seen sales fall through (in the boom times mind you ) where these life safety issues were ignored.

sydthebeat

HereAndThere wrote: »

Does anyone know if this is a legal requirement and the likely extra cost of following all these regulations? 30 minute fire proofing of the second floor ceiling, extend existing stairway with fire-resisting walls or partitions etc... They seem a bit excessive?

I want to do it right but just wondering if everything is required?

yes, everything is required, and no, its not excessive, its minimum requirements. So these are not extra costs, they are minimum costs.

that document is published to help people understand what is required to keep them safe in event of a fire.

do you want to scrimp on life or death safety measures??

You may find that your existing construction meets the required fire resistance, but if you do not know, then get professional help in this.

HereAndThere

Thanks guys.

No I know its best not to scrimp when it comes to fire safety issues.

I just want to be informed so I can make a better decision.

For example - do a loft conversion or leave it as storage area.

Maybe I'll just get an first floor extension for the extra space (Move out not up).

Thanks Again

sydthebeat

I suppose it comes down to your needs. Would a loft conversion suffice?
Would it give you sufficient habitable space that would add value to the dwelling? would it even be considered habitable space?

focus_mad

OP what do you plan on using the conversion for? Storage or an extra bedroom?