Singing Pig

Regarding the soundproofing spec on newbuild, you don't have to have a pre-completion test, and as long as you follow a specification which has been approved by Robust Details Ltd., and building control can see that you have followed the spec, then they sign off the dwelling without requiring you to jump through hoops.  This makes the whole build a lot less scary as you dont have to budget for endless remedial sealing, reduc floors etc.  Part L (thermal efficiency) is also a barrel of laughs on newbuild as of this September (new dwellings are going to have to be completely airtight).  Thankfully I hear that Robust Details are working on approving some specs for this as well - fingers crossed.

Regarding doing the fitout yourself, unfortunately on a newbuild this would be impossible unless you are NHBC registered, as the flats would need the entire build to be carried out by a registered contractor in order for the warranty to be given, and for them thus to be mortgageable.

Hi BTS,

Clottie guided me to this thread. Just bought an edwardian semi that was converted to 2 flats about 30 yrs ago.

My initial enquiry was about the doors between the kitchen and the bathroom of the downstairs flat (there is only one), Clottie advised that there needs to be 2 and suggested I read this thread. Having read through, i am now a little concerned re the sound proofing as it sounds expensive. Does this still apply if the flats were converted a long time ago, ie do i have to ensure that the sound proofing complies if i am only refurbing not converting?

The property only has has a single supply for the water, i am installing 2 new central heating systems incorporating non return valves for the feed to the second flat and i was going to charge the rent inclusive of water rates to avoid possible costly works in having the mains altered.

Your comments would be greatly appreciated.

thanks

mhp

mhp,

The answer to your question is no. The regs only apply to new conversions and is not retrospective, just imagine the chaos if it were!

You should check with the local housing department what their policy is regarding type F HMO's; as the building is still an intact freehold it still counts as a house of multiple occupancy, even though it consists purely of self-contained dwellings.  Most LA's (in my limited experience since the new legislation was passed) seem to be fairly laid back, preferring to target the bedsit end of the market with compulsory bills of work.

My solicitor looked into the aspects of correct permissions prioir to conversion and i also raised the hmo scenario - he said all was fine.

The two flats have dedicated entrances (sloping site), I don't know if this has any bearing on the above matters?

Many thanks for your input - any advice greatly appreciated.

mhp

Dear BTS,

I have just bought a dilapidated Victorian 3 story property (at auction) with the intention of splitting into a lower ground floor 1 bed and a 3 bed maisonette. There are already seperate entrances.  I applied for planning 10 days ago.

Upon fuller inspection of the building I found 

2 x electricity supplies

1 x Gas supply

1 x water supply.

1.  Will this dual elec supply help with the planning?

2.  Is it worth making the planning dept aware of this at this stage?

3.  Would this constitute existing use as seperate dwellings, thus easing sound proofing regs

Thanks in advance 

Chris