Installation of Fireplaces - What is the legal position?

[gizmo_the_great]

Hi

I'm having a panic!!

I've had two fireplaces fitted since November 2006, the most recent one was fitted last week and is a gas fire basket fireplace. The other one is a real fire and was fitted Novemeber 2006.

Having identified a problem with the chimney I've been told that the installer should have given me a 'Building Control Certificate' and that I should have applied for Building Regulations. I didn't know that (ignoant of me yes, but innocent nonetheless). I do not have certificates for either fireplaces.

I am trying to get hold of the fitter as we speak but what I want to do is clarify what the position is. Should he have issued me with a certificate or is it the council that do that? If it's the council is it possible to apply for building regs retrospectiviely and what will be involved in them ascertaining whether or not it's OK? What is the liklihood of me having to have them taken out?

Thanks

Ted

 

[gizmo_the_great]

Spoke to fitter. Apparently 'Safety Certificates' are put through every fortnight and CORGI usually dispatch the certificate after about 3 weeks, she said. So it sounds like all is OK