Conservatory Alterations

Is there a need for improved information for builders and roofers on the need for Building Control approval systems when structural modifications are undertaken on residential buildings?

As a practising building surveyor writing a condition report, it is important to consider the findings of presale surveys on properties being considered for purchase. In some cases, the survey may indicate that certain alterations to the property have been made without the necessary building control applications. For instance, an extension may have been built within permitted development limits based on its size, but it is still required to comply with Building Regulations. In such cases, it is a legal requirement for the property owners to contact the Local Authority Building Control for certification to ensure compliance with the regulations.

Failure to obtain the necessary approvals for alterations poses a risk of serious and costly issues, as well as potential dangers. Some common alterations that require building control applications include the removal of chimney stacks or internal supporting walls, repairs to more than 20% of a roof, and the installation of a new solid roof to a conservatory. It is worth noting that replacing a glass or polycarbonate roof has become increasingly common, with many suppliers failing to inform owners of the requirement for building control approval.

An article in the March 2006 edition of the Building Engineer Magazine highlights the risks associated with failing to comply with Building Regulations when replacing a roof. Without the required calculations to confirm compliance, there is a risk of the roof collapsing, potentially causing serious harm or damage. It is crucial to take any serious issues identified by a surveyor in their report seriously, as they are intended to protect against such risks. Ignoring these warnings could result in severe consequences, including injury or worse. See the recent article below or read it on-line at CABE