I work in the upvc windows and doors industry and recently was visiting our friends new house. I was surprised to find a huge drop to her decking area from her outward opening french doors, about 300mm from the top of the threshold. I told her to get on to the housebuilder and get them to raise the decking as it didn't comply with building regs, but the company assured her that the height is fine. I have trawled the internet and cannot find a maximum height for this, can anyone help?
French doors building regs
- Thread starter The Bullet
- Start date
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This is the important bit: if the decking is required in order to enable the use of the building then building regulations will apply. Max step height should be 220mm http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/br/BR_PDF_ADK_1998.pdf table 1 page 6
Thanks , but i can't seem to open link 
Opens fine for me!
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Got it now, had to update adobe pdf reader, thanks.
So in this instance this would be classed as a maximum height of a private stair - giving 220mm max?
Even though it's not a stair as such?
So in this instance this would be classed as a maximum height of a private stair - giving 220mm max?
Even though it's not a stair as such?
Planning permission is required for any decking more than 300mm above ground level, if the decking in question was not specified on the original plans then they maybe unable to raise it although they maybe able to add a step outside the door thus you would have two 150mm steps between the door and the decking.
Yes as mentioned if the development (ie the new house) requires a decking outside to be able to use the door then these regs apply. It doesn't wash that its not attached to the house. Is this a brand new house? Have you spoken to Building Control? Although they may not be interested in taking up your cause frankly. Realistically if the developer is being unreasonable it may just be more sensible (less hassle) to just build a step.
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