Fire regulations Loft conversion and extension

[topgazza]

I have a 3 bed detached property with a loft conversion. The loft was added in 2001. I vaguely remember being told that we couldn’t add a ground floor extension under the Velux loft window that was, in effect, a fire escape window. This was due to the need for ladder access by the fire brigade. Is this still the case ? Also is that an accurate interpretation anyway ?

 

[wessex101]

There is no restriction on building a ground floor extension below a loft rooflight, nor has there ever been.

 

[topgazza]

I always had my suspicions. Even below Velux that is specifically an escape ? I remember the conversation and the architect said it’s because the fire brigade may need to mount a ladder as they can’t get a cherry picker in the back garden.

I’ve read plenty of regs, yawn, around this and indeed I can’t see any mention at all

Thank you

 

[topgazza]

Just a thought. Does that apply to conservatories beneath a fire escape vellux ?

 

[^woody^]

Under the 2001 regulations, second storey loft conversions required an escape window that was either accessible to the fire service, or lead to a defined escape route escape to a place of safety .

Those requirements still stand today, unless it can be demonstrated that any alterations are no-less safe.

So yes, meeting those requirements may mean that what can be done with the area below such an escape window is restricted

 

[topgazza]

Thanks. Just found a letter from the loft company from back then explaining that a conservatory is a no no because the fire brigade couldn’t access the escape window. They mention that a small extension is an option provided access is possible. But would need to be advised

Thanks everyone