15 Portman Square W1
Designated higher-risk building (HRB)
15 Portman Square is a distinguished residential building situated in the heart of Marylebone, W1. Overlooking the exclusive Portman Square Gardens, this property offers residents a blend of classic elegance and modern convenience. With its proximity to Oxford Street, Bond Street, and the serene Hyde Park, it provides an enviable London living experience. As of October 2023, with the introduction of the Building Safety Act, 15 Portman Square has been designated a Higher Risk Building.
If you’re considering refurbishing your apartment in 15 Portman Square, it’s essential to understand the implications of the Building Safety Act 2022. This legislation aims to enhance safety standards in residential buildings, particularly those classified as higher-risk due to their height or number of storeys. With 15 Portman Square now designated a Higher Risk Building, you cannot undertake any works without permission from the Building Safety Regulator.
We specialise in helping owners navigate these regulations, ensuring your refurbishment project is compliant and stress-free. With extensive experience working on projects in higher-risk buildings like 15 Portman Square, our team can guide you every step of the way, helping you achieve your vision while adhering to the latest safety standards.
Understanding the Building Safety Act 2022
The Building Safety Act 2022 was introduced to reform building safety regulations, ensuring that residential properties meet stringent safety criteria. The Act established the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) to oversee compliance and introduced the role of the Principal Accountable Person (PAP) responsible for managing building safety.
For residents of 15 Portman Square, this means that any refurbishment plans must align with the enhanced safety standards, from initial design to final execution. Whether you’re making minor upgrades or undertaking more substantial works, ensuring compliance with the Act is now a crucial part of the process.
What is a Higher-Risk Building?
15 Portman Square qualifies as a higher-risk building under the Building Safety Act 2022. This classification applies to buildings over 18 metres tall or with seven or more storeys and multiple residential units. For homeowners in 15 Portman Square, this means additional oversight is required to ensure that refurbishments meet stringent safety requirements.
These regulations are in place to protect all residents by maintaining fire safety measures, ensuring structural integrity, and preventing any modifications that could compromise the building’s safety.
Why is this important?
Refurbishments in 15 Portman Square now require careful planning to comply with the Building Safety Act 2022. Whether you’re updating your kitchen, replacing windows, or making changes to the internal layout, it’s essential to align with these new safety standards.
Certain types of work may require approval from the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) or consultation with the building’s Principal Accountable Person (PAP). Any modifications affecting communal areas, fire-resistant materials, or structural elements must be reviewed to ensure they do not compromise the safety of the entire building.
With Antarris, you can rest assured that every detail of your project will be managed to meet compliance requirements while achieving your desired outcomes.
Steps to Take Before Starting Your Refurbishment
Confirm Whether Your Building Is Higher-Risk
As a resident of 15 Portman Square, your first step is to confirm the building’s higher-risk status with the building management or the PAP. This ensures you fully understand the regulations and how they apply to your planned refurbishment project.
Understand the New Regulations
Familiarise yourself with the safety measures required under the Building Safety Act. Certain types of work, such as structural changes or modifications to fire-resistant materials, may be restricted or require additional approvals. Identifying these requirements early will help you plan effectively and avoid unnecessary delays.
Consult the Principal Accountable Person (PAP)
The PAP plays a vital role in overseeing building safety compliance. Before starting your refurbishment, provide detailed plans for their review and approval. The PAP will assess whether your project aligns with the building’s safety protocols.
Hire Qualified Professionals
Working with qualified professionals is essential for ensuring compliance. At Antarris, we have a team of experienced architects, designers, and contractors who specialise in refurbishments for higher-risk buildings like 15 Portman Square. By choosing trusted experts, you can ensure you obtain the approvals for your project and it is executed to the highest standards.
Apply for Necessary Permissions
For higher-risk buildings like 15 Portman Square, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) acts as the building control authority. This means that your plans must meet the BSR’s stringent safety requirements before approval is granted, particularly for structural changes, fire safety measures, or modifications to communal systems.
Additionally, as the apartments in 15 Portman Square are likely leasehold properties, you will need to obtain a licence to alter from the freeholder or managing agent before proceeding with any significant refurbishment. This legal document specifies the scope of your planned works and ensures compliance with the lease terms. Securing a licence to alter may require submitting detailed plans, specifications, and contractor information.
At Antarris, we simplify this process by liaising with the BSR, freeholders and managing agents on your behalf, ensuring all necessary permissions are obtained smoothly and efficiently.
Common Refurbishment Projects and Considerations in 15 Portman Square
In 15 Portman Square, popular refurbishment projects include modernising kitchens and bathrooms, replacing flooring, and upgrading balconies or windows. Internal alterations, such as removing walls, require consultation with a structural engineer to ensure compliance with safety standards.
External modifications must adhere to fire safety regulations, and balcony upgrades or window replacements often require approval from the PAP. Electrical and gas works should be completed by certified professionals, such as NICEIC-registered electricians or Gas Safe engineers, to meet current safety requirements.
Potential Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failing to comply with the Building Safety Act regulations can have serious repercussions for homeowners in 15 Portman Square. Non-compliance may result in fines, legal notices, or the need to undo completed work. It could also void your home insurance and deter potential buyers, negatively affecting the value of your property.
Additionally, as a leaseholder, you are required to obtain a licence to alter from the landlord (freeholder) before starting any significant refurbishment. This licence will not be granted unless you confirm that the proposed works will also obtain approval from the Building Safety Regulator (BSR). Without both permissions, proceeding with refurbishment could result in legal disputes and project delays.
By ensuring all necessary approvals are secured, you protect your investment and contribute to the safety and compliance of the building. At Antarris, we assist with navigating these processes to ensure your project meets every requirement, allowing you to proceed confidently and efficiently. At Antarris, we combine technical expertise with a commitment to quality, helping you achieve your refurbishment goals while maintaining compliance with all regulations.
Why Choose Antarris for Your project?
At Antarris, we specialise in helping homeowners in higher-risk buildings like 15 Portman Square navigate the complexities of refurbishment projects. With our in-depth knowledge of the Building Safety Act 2022 and years of experience in high-end refurbishments, we are the trusted choice for ensuring your project runs smoothly from start to finish.
We offer a full-service approach, including design, planning, obtaining necessary approvals, and executing the work to the highest standards. Whether you’re upgrading your interiors or undertaking structural changes, Antarris is here to guide you every step of the way.
By choosing Antarris, you’re not just improving your home—you’re investing in its safety, compliance, and long-term value.