do i need steels?

[tigs333]

I'm planning to do a bit of work in my house.

We have mixed views from various builders.

We are taking lathe and plaster walls out - and replacing them with modern insulation. We have taken out two partion walls - and are replacing them - and hoping to add an ensuite - this will change the structure..

Some builders have told me I have to replace the original beams - with steels - the room has been there since 1950 ish..

I was thinking of getting a structural engineer to come and take a look at how to support the roof above a chimney I want removing - and to help me 'relocate the stairs' .. but neither of these jobs will impact on the loft floor - so are these builders being over zealous - one was saying I have to 'alter all my loft rafters' .. as they do not meet current requirments - loft was put up in 1890's and hasn't come down yet (has been tinkered with - and places rehung.. but is in good condition and does not need adjusting'..

Additionally - could I draw my own 'plans' for planning control - using sketch up - or would it best to use a planner or architect? so confused

tried to ring my local planning officer - but his answer phone message says to ring between 7.45 and 9.45 and not at all on a Friday?!

 

[tony1851]

You don't need planning permission for what you are proposing (unless you are listed). You do need Building Regulations approval as some of what you will be doing is structural.
You don't need an architect to draw plans - in fact you don't need plans for a building regs. application. What you need is an SE to look it over and, if necessary, do calcs and details.

 

[tigs333]

Will the building control people (for regulations) look at the loft joists as it is not changing? - or will this depend on different boroughs?

I'm planning an extension too - which will need plans (sorry missed that off the first part)..

I was think it would work out cheaper to get a structural engineer to look over both jobs at once - rather than getting them to do two separate ones..

 

[tony1851]

The inspector will only look at that part of the house you are working on; anything else is irrelevant.

As said, unless you need planning permission, you wouldn't need plans for a building regs application, but you can draw (or have plans done) for them if you wish.

Maybe cheaper to have an SE look it all over in one go.

 

[tigs333]

Thank you tony - that really helps