HIGHER RISK BUILDINGS
What Homeowners Need to Know
Understanding the Building Safety Act 2022 and Its Impact on your refurbishment plans.
Navigating home refurbishments in higher-risk buildings is becoming increasingly important for UK homeowners, especially with recent changes to building safety regulations. If you’re planning to carry out improvements on your flat or apartment within a high-rise building, it’s crucial to understand how the Building Safety Act 2022 might affect your project. This landmark legislation was introduced following the tragic Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, which highlighted serious shortcomings in building safety. The Act aims to enhance safety in higher-risk buildings and has significant implications for homeowners like you.
We’ll demystify what these new regulations mean for your home improvement plans, guiding you through the key considerations to ensure your refurbishments are compliant, safe, and successful.
the Building Safety Act 2022
The Building Safety Act 2022 is comprehensive legislation enacted by the UK government to reform building safety regulations, particularly for high-rise residential buildings. Its key objectives are to enhance building safety standards, establish the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), improve accountability by clearly defining the responsibilities of developers, contractors, and building owners, introduce the Principal Accountable Person (PAP) responsible for the safety of a higher-risk building throughout its lifecycle, and ensure resident safety by mandating transparent communication about building safety and providing mechanisms for raising concerns.
Defining Higher-Risk Buildings
A higher-risk building is defined by specific criteria under the Act. Buildings that are 18 metres or taller or have seven or more storeys, and contain two or more residential units such as flats or apartments, fall into this category. If your home is in a building that fits these criteria, it is classified as higher-risk. This means additional safety measures and approval processes are now in place, which you need to be aware of before starting any refurbishment work.
When planning refurbishments in a higher-risk building, several important factors come into play. All alterations must comply with the stricter safety standards outlined in the Building Safety Act 2022. Certain types of work may require approval from the BSR or your building’s PAP before you begin. Modifications could affect fire safety measures or structural integrity, impacting not just your flat but the entire building. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider how your refurbishments might affect communal areas or shared safety features.
NAVIGATing THE PROCESS
Confirm Whether Your Building Is Higher-Risk
Before starting your refurbishment, confirm whether your building is higher-risk by consulting your building manager or landlord. They should provide information on the building’s status under the new regulations. Reviewing official communications is also helpful; look for notices or documents that outline how the Building Safety Act affects your building. Understanding whether your building is classified as higher-risk is the first step in navigating the new regulations effectively.
Understand the New Regulations
Next, assuming you are in a higher-risk building, familiarise yourself with the enhanced safety measures, especially those concerning fire safety and structural alterations. Some refurbishments may be limited or require special permissions under the new rules. Identifying any restricted works early on will save you time and prevent potential legal issues down the line. Before making any changes, inform the PAP to determine if approval is needed. Provide detailed plans, including drawings or specifications of the proposed work, for review. Obtaining written consent before proceeding is crucial, as the PAP’s role is to ensure that all refurbishments comply with safety regulations and do not compromise the building’s integrity.
Hire an expert professional team
Hiring qualified professionals is essential. Select architects, designers, and contractors experienced with higher-risk buildings and familiar with the Building Safety Act. This is important as you have to provide a declaration confirming you have faith they have the knowledge and experience to carry out the works effectively. Using a competent team not only ensures compliance but also contributes to the safety and success of your project. At Antarris, we specialise in guiding homeowners through the complexities of refurbishing properties within higher-risk buildings. With the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022, it’s more important than ever to work with professionals who understand the intricacies of the new regulations.
Common Refurbishment Projects and Considerations
Interior Alterations
Common refurbishment projects such as interior alterations require careful consideration. Removing or altering walls can be risky, especially if they are structural or fire-resistant. It’s important to consult a structural engineer and carry out a load-bearing wall assessment before proceeding. This can also help inform the interior architecture of your project. For kitchen and bathroom refurbishments, ensure plumbing and electrical works meet current safety standards and are carried out by certified professionals. If you’re changing flooring, consider sound insulation requirements to prevent disturbances to neighbours.
External Modifications
External modifications also demand attention. Replacing windows must comply with fire safety regulations and may require approval. Alterations to balconies, such as upgrades or enclosures, can affect fire escape routes or external fire spread, so approval is likely needed. Always consult with the PAP and relevant authorities before making external changes.
Electrical and Gas Works
All installations must comply with the latest regulations, such as BS 7671 for electrical work. Use Gas Safe registered engineers and NICEIC-certified electricians to carry out the work, ensuring compliance and guaranteeing the safety of your home and the entire building.
Potential Consequences of Non-Compliance
Ignoring the Building Safety Act regulations can lead to serious consequences. Legal penalties may include fines, enforcement notices, or being required to undo completed work. Non-compliant refurbishments increase the risk of fire or structural failure, endangering occupants. Your home insurance policy may also be voided due to non-compliant work, and future buyers might be deterred, negatively impacting your property’s market value.
It is quite difficult to circuvent the Building Safety Act as your Landlord (Freeholder) will not grant you a licence to alter until you have submitted an Application to the Building Safety Regulator.
Tips for a Smooth Refurbishment Process
To ensure your refurbishment goes smoothly:
Hire the right team: Appoint a team of professionals.
Plan Ahead: Allow extra time for approvals and consultations.
Keep Records: Maintain documentation of all communications, approvals, and certifications.
Stay Informed: Regulations can evolve; keeping up-to-date with any changes that may affect your project is wise.
Engage with Neighbours: Inform them of your plans, especially if the work may cause disruptions. This not only builds goodwill but also helps in addressing any concerns proactively.
Commitment to Compliance and Safety
Embarking on home refurbishments within a higher-risk building requires careful navigation of the new safety regulations introduced by the Building Safety Act 2022. By understanding these requirements and proactively engaging with the necessary authorities and professionals, you can ensure your refurbishment project is compliant, safe, and successful. Remember, these regulations are designed to protect you and your community. Adhering to them not only fulfils your legal obligations but also enhances the safety and value of your home. By staying informed and compliant, you’re contributing to a safer future for everyone in your building.
Why Choose Antarris for Your Refurbishment Needs
As you navigate the complexities of refurbishing your home within a higher-risk building, choosing the right partner is crucial. At Antarris, we specialise in guiding homeowners through the intricacies of the Building Safety Act 2022, ensuring your refurbishment project is not only compliant but also exceeds your expectations in quality and design. Our expert team is fully versed in the latest building safety regulations, offering you peace of mind that your home improvement plans are in capable hands.
We pride ourselves on our personalised service, tailoring solutions to meet your specific needs while keeping you informed at every stage. Our qualified professional bring extensive experience in higher-risk building refurbishments. From the initial consultation to final completion, we handle all aspects of your project, including liaising with the Principal Accountable Person (PAP) and obtaining necessary approvals.
Choosing Antarris means investing in a partner dedicated to making your home safer and more comfortable. We prioritise compliance and safety without compromising on the aesthetic and functional aspects of your refurbishment. With our comprehensive support, you can proceed confidently, knowing your home is in expert hands.
If you’re considering a home refurbishment in a higher-risk building, don’t face these challenges alone. Contact today for a consultation, and let us help you bring your vision to life while ensuring full compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022. Together, we’ll contribute to a safer future for everyone in your building.