Maintaining the inherent passive fire safety principles of the building e.g. fire resisting doors, fire stopping provision, smoke ventilation.
Naturally. Building Control issue?
Hi NT
Only a building control issue in so far as alterations and major refurbs are concerned. We have previously confirmed the legal duties of the RP landlord to carry out a fire risk assessment of the communal areas (Except in Scotland). It is absolutely clear but often overlooked by the tick box merchants that this duty covers service ducts, refuse chutes, substation rooms and ventilation.
Has Northern Ireland legislation followed the English model in respect of flats and common areas?
Hi K
No, I misread this item despite it being a very simple statement. Is that the sign of seniority creeping in? My long term memory is improving somewhat though.
Once BC are done and dusted that's it really. I think technically they may have a year to ensure maintenance of measures but as far as I know this is not pushed.
Issue I had, but still advising on, was residential private apts which were built in phases (4). First phase completed and cert issued. Remaining phases where then completed without notices to BC. Subsequently completed for occupation without BC knowledge (they say) and of course no cert issued.
Compartmentation problems now exist in areas you mention but BC of opinion that as it is over year it has little to do with them other than offering advice. BC have asked managing agents for copy of FRA and I think they are kacking themselves a little. Very hard to miss an apartment block of flats going up in a city centre.
Am waiting instructions to carry out survey of more private apartments. Seems insurance company want the building(s) surveyed for compliance with current B Regs. I do know that they were built within current Regs period so I'm not quite sure what the problem is or why they want it done.
Maybe to increase premiums if weaknesses in compartmentation uncovered.
