Bristol1

Hi all, We are building a timber frame home and we are currently at the skimming stage. Building regulations require that every load bearing wall is fire resistant for 30 minutes, hence we have used 15mm plasterboard. We also have a protected fire corridor (stairs and landing) which must be 30 minutes fire resistant. Our plasterer has fitted the plasterboard approximately 15mm to 30mm off the floor in most areas. I understand that this is fairly standard and the purpose of this is to ensure the plasterboard can’t wick up any moisture from the floor. However, a 30mm gap at the bottom seems excessive for a wall that should provide 30 minutes fire resistance (albeit the gap will be behind MDF skirting board). I can’t find any guidance or building regulation that states a maximum permissible gap, only vague references online to the entirety of the wall needing to be fire resistant. Does anybody know of the gap must be filled or if there is a maximum allowed gap please? Our builder has suggested fire foam, but I understand its effectiveness is questionable. I believe intumescent sealant may be a sensible option. However, it would be quite a lot of work (and Sealant!) and I certainly don’t want to do it if it’s completely acceptable to simply do nothing and leave a gap. If anybody has any experience of this, or is aware of any clear guidance, I would really appreciate your advice!

Our bricklayer has installed a DPC on the inner skin of blockwork that leaves around 20mm of the block uncovered. I was concerned that this bridges the DPC and may allow rising damp to occur. He dismissed this and said that the gap is to allow for a key and avoid a slip plane (and it’s all perfectly normal). Can I please have your thoughts?

Thank you all for the quick responses! Very helpful. It sounds as though we misunderstood the scope of the quote initially - lesson learned for next time!

We are nearing completion of our self-build and have received an unexpected bill from our plumber. It's not huge but we have been messed around quite a bit and I don't want to be taken advantage of. His quote allowed for the supply of "1st Fix materials which includes soil pipes, waste pipes, hot & cold services, heating pipe work, pipe work to kitchen & bathrooms". He has now invoiced us £350 for "supply of pan connectors, shower fixings, basin/sink/bath traps, copper, waste pipe and fittings". This relates to three bathrooms and utility/kitchen sinks and all traps are the simple white plastic type. We supplied bathroom suites and our understanding was that all pipework would be supplied by the plumber. The distinction that he appears to be drawing is that the items now being charged for relate to 2nd fix materials which he has supplied (but not quoted for) rather than 1st fix materials (which he did quote for). I would be grateful to hear opinions as to whether the items now being charged for are indeed "2nd fix items" and if so, whether the plumber's approach/price seems reasonable?