Can I make a terrace on this type of roof?

GillObrien · 24 Jun 2013

Hi all

We are moving flats because we want some outside space, and we found a nice place with a roof terrace. The flat is on the first floor and the terrace is over a ground floor part of the building. I think the roof is concrete - I walked on it and it was solid. The building is old.

Does anyone have an idea if it would be ok to cover this in square decking and put some planters, and a table and chairs? I'm worried about the weight.

Any ideas appreciated. Photos of the building and terrace below.

many thanks
Gill

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GillObrien
24 Jun 2013
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GillObrien
24 Jun 2013
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OwainDIYer · 24 Jun 2013

Your solicitor will ascertain what rights if any you would have over the roof area, and a good surveyor or a structural engineer will advise on the loading capacity of the roof.

Finally you will need a planning application to turn a flat roof into a terrace, and possibly building regulations for structural safety, rails and guarding, etc.

In England you will also need the freeholder's consent.

rjm2k · 24 Jun 2013

It looks like its already used like that and already has railings?

GillObrien · 25 Jun 2013

Thank you for your responses.

It looks to me like it was built as a roof terrace - it has the orginal doors leading out onto it and railings all around. I don't think we have an issue with permissions - we are in France anyway so it is a bit different.

I just don't fancy ending up in someones downstairs living room! I am slightly concerned as to why the previous tenant hasn't made better use of it. Maybe they were just not interested! And it has rained all year.

I think I'll go and speak to the neighbour and see what it is sitting on top of.

dann09 · 25 Jun 2013

If you have a concierge then she will have OK'ed the previous tenant's use of the roof space.

The flat roof and rooms below are perhaps later additions to the older front building. If so, the roof will be well sound for your pupose. Odds on that it is a concrete slab.

Take care with the drainage, and moisture penetration of the stucco/render to the low perimeter wall.

GillObrien · 26 Jun 2013

Thank you everyone for your replies.

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Can I make a terrace on this type of roof?

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