Category: News, Staircases
External staircases can make a wonderful addition to your home, both aesthetically and practically. It can offer a gateway from upper floors to the garden. However, there are a number of considerations before you can reap the benefits. Right from the get-go of a project, you will need to consider whether planning permissions, building regulations or both are required as they require two separate applications.
Although tempting to overlook, not following the correct procedure when planning your external staircase will more than likely land you in hot water and end up with your time and energy being wasted. Therefore, taking all the necessary steps can save you a world of hassle further down the line. To help navigate this, below are some considerations to ensure compliance with the specific regulations in your area.
Building Regulations
Building regulations are a set of rules that govern what is acceptable for the design and construction of external suitcases. The set of rules vary depending on the location of the project. Below are some requirements that must be complied with for the building work to go ahead:
- Structure
- Fire safety
- Site preparation and resistance to contaminants and moisture
- Toxic substances
- Resistance to the passage of sound
- Ventilation
Further requirements are listed under the technical requirements section here. It is always best to also consult with a professional (local authorities or building professionals) to ensure your staircase effectively adheres to all local regulations in your area.
Planning Permission
Whether you require planning permission for your external suitcase is dependent on where it is being installed and the type of staircase. There are circumstances whereby obtaining planning permission for the installation of your external staircase may not be necessary, depending on the perceived impact to your neighbours and the environment. In this circumstance, you will automatically be granted permitted development rights and can go right ahead.
If you find yourself requiring planning permission for the installation, not to worry! You can easily get this sorted. It can however sometimes be a lengthy process, therefore the application will need to be submitted well ahead of the project start date. This can either be done online or posted to the Local Planning Authority (LPA).
A typical application consists of:
- Site plans
- Supporting documents
- The completed forms
- The correct fee
Many external staircase providers will guide you through the whole process including an initial home visit whereby all practical considerations, including planning permission and space constraints can be discussed. To find out more about applying for planning permission, follow this link.
Moving forward with your external staircase without getting the green light can place you right back at square one. This is because local authorities have the right to hand you an enforcement notice demanding all changes be undone, meaning it can quickly become a very expensive mistake. To know if your project requires planning permission, make sure to contact your LPA through your local council, where you will simply be required to fill out an online form.
Tucker Joinery manufacture various hardwood external suitcases in traditional or modern styles and can take care of the design, manufacture and installation alongside you or your builder, as well as providing expert advise on practical considerations. Get in touch with one of our experts today to find out how we can get your external staircase project moving today.
