FAQ
What is the Party Wall Act?
If as part of your building you are planning to carry out work within 3 metres of a neighbour's property, you will have to inform them of your intentions and obtain a 'party wall' agreement from them.
Will I have to arrange specific insurance during the building work?
It is normal for home insurance policies to exclude cover during the property's renovation or alteration works and not to provide cover on an unoccupied property. You will almost certainly need to arrange specialist "All Risks" renovation insurance to adequately cover the property for the duration of the building work. These policies cover the entire project including public liability, employers liability as well as legal expenses which is extremely useful if you have a contractual dispute. Don't just assume that the contractors insurance will cover you adequately.
What are Building Regulations?
Don't confuse Building Regulations with planning. The Building Regulations are there to ensure that buildings are made to a minimum quality standard for such things as structure, drainage, fire escape, ventilation, insulation etc. The regulations can sometimes seem unreasonable, but they are all there for valid reasons. Building regulation matters are generally handled by Building Control Officers in the Building Control Department of your local authority but alternative a private licensed inspector can be hired. Unlike planning, there is no committee and you should not have to endure a long wait for approvals.
What is a Dormer Window?
A dormer is a window is the type of window which is set vertically on a sloping roof. The dormer has its own roof, which may be flat, pointed or arched.
