Attic space just classed as storage with full staircase access - issue with compliance

k mac · 02-08-2023 04:09PM #1

Just have a quick question someone maybe could help with. Looking at buying a house that has two rooms in the attic that are not complying with fire and structural regs so just classed as storage space. Only issue is there is a full timber staircase up to this space. My question is if getting a survey done on this house for a mortgage, would any issue be raised that it has the staircase in place.

Gumbo · 02-08-2023 04:13PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058307710/attic-space-just-classed-as-storage-with-full-staircase-access-issue-with-compliance

A cert from the Vendor confirming it is non habitable space should be enough to satisfy the mortgage process.

sydthebeat · 03-08-2023 09:15AM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058307710/attic-space-just-classed-as-storage-with-full-staircase-access-issue-with-compliance

"not complying with structural regs" rings alarm bells in my mind !!!

what exactly is the issue? ill assume its due to no one wanting to sign off the structural alterations of the conversions

k mac · 03-08-2023 09:35AM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120933465#Comment_120933465

No there was no structural alteration or conversions, its a new build and i would think the builder just put proper stairs in to make the house more attractive to buyers. As there is no fire escape from the above rooms however they would not be compliant so they could never be classed as living space.

Mellor · 07-08-2023 02:05PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120933526#Comment_120933526

Escape would be fire regs (part b). You also mention a compliance issue with structural issue regs, which could be more serious.

Some people are happy to use storage spaces as bedroom etc. But consider the insurance and legal implications in the event of a fire.

Gumbo · 07-08-2023 02:11PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120933526#Comment_120933526

Structure is Part A. You also have an open stairs so that means it’s a 3 storey dwelling. Fire regs with regards to fire doors and protected escape route “may” come into play.

It’s also worth noting that the new fire safety regs don’t require an alternative escape from the additional third storey if it’s solely used as a family room, non habitable. But you do need the fire doors and protected stairs enclosure.

k mac · 08-08-2023 10:48AM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120949130#Comment_120949130

It all makes me a bit worried it may be an issue, as i said we are only looking at buying but are very keen on the house. Another issue is if we did buy and were ever selling again these might cause problems

Former Former Former · 08-08-2023 11:06AM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120951772#Comment_120951772

No, there is nothing to worry about.

If/when you go to sell, you just call it storage space too. Having a proper stairs up to it does not change that. Fire regs etc are irrelevant.

Gumbo · 08-08-2023 12:50PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120951848#Comment_120951848

How much do you charge for an inspection and certificate to that effect?

Former Former Former · 08-08-2023 01:41PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120952240#Comment_120952240

Nothing. What would I even certify it against, if the regs don't apply?

I'm guessing you'd be charging the OP a fair whack though.

Gumbo · 08-08-2023 03:21PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120952429#Comment_120952429

No, I’m not in that business. Sounds like the OP needs your services if you’d charge nothing.

Mellor · 09-08-2023 07:56AM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120952429#Comment_120952429

You'd be certifying it hat those regs didn't apply and the house compliant. I'd take the fact you'd charge nothing to actually mean you wouldn't do anything.

Thinking fire regs escape are irrelevant is pretty naive. They don't matter an iota if there is no fire. But if there is ever a fire, suddenly they are the most important thing in the world.

Former Former Former · 09-08-2023 08:28AM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120955259#Comment_120955259

You're absolutely right, he shouldn't have his child sleeping up there if there's no way out in the event of a fire.

But the original question was, if the attic is non-habitable space, is it an issue for the mortgage that there's a stairs leading up to it - the answer to that is a resounding no.

Mellor · 09-08-2023 02:00PM

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/120955314#Comment_120955314

Glad we’re on the same page regarding the use of the attic as a bedroom. Many people think using these attics as a bedroom in is fine because, most days it’s not a problem.

A storage space itself is not automatically a mortgage issue. However, it could be an issue. If the buyers offer/market value was inflated based on the fact the attic is an extra bedroom.

Attic space just classed as storage with full staircase access - issue with compliance

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