Mezzanine implications on BRegs

[Visti]

Hi All!

 

We're trying to be forward looking and are factoring in mezzanines in our three principle bedrooms as the TF structural engineering and loads are being calculated. This is something we wont initially build but may do 5-10 years down the line as the young-uns grow up so as to get their rooms a bit more space when they're older.

 

Whilst this had always been on the cards and discussed with our architect multiple times, it became clear that this hadn't been factored in. Thankfully we caught it with the engineers in time!

 

However, what seems to have been omitted is the impact these may have on the Building Regulations. Out architect hasn't the experience in mezzanines and therefore isn't sure of the implications. Particularly the difference in these being used as living space (i.e. beds) vs. only storage.

 

We've a lot of pressure to get going, and these won't be implemented for at least a good 5-10 years, so we're going ahead with out considering the BRegs implications yet... but it'd be good to understand them!

 

Anyone have experience in this?

 

[ToughButterCup]

2 minutes ago, Visti said:

[...]

However, what seems to have been omitted is the impact these may have on the Building Regulations. Out architect hasn't the experience in mezzanines and therefore isn't sure of the implications

[...]

 

Your architect doesn't have that experience? And nobody else in the practice has experience either? Or your architect doesn't feel able to have a professional discussion with colleagues about it?

 

My (remaining) finger-tips are burning.

[ProDave]

We have a mezanine to the largest bedroom (extending over the smallest bedroom)

 

It was detailed on the plans including the building warrant drawings.

 

We are not intending it to be anything other than a "storage platform" to start with so access only by a portable ladder and no hand rail.  Eventually some form of fixed steps will be installed (and a firemans pole if my daughter gets her way) which will dictate the need to fit a handrail.

 

 

 

[Russell griffiths]

Why do you need to tell anybody if you are not building them for 10 years. ,

build the structure strong enough, keep the drawings, cross the bridge in 10 years time. 

[Visti]

17 minutes ago, Russell griffiths said:

Why do you need to tell anybody if you are not building them for 10 years. ,

build the structure strong enough, keep the drawings, cross the bridge in 10 years time. 

 

That's exactly the approach we're taking today, so that we don't delay the build any further given how much Graven Hill are breathing down our backs!

 

1 hour ago, recoveringacademic said:

 

Your architect doesn't have that experience? And nobody else in the practice has experience either? Or your architect doesn't feel able to have a professional discussion with colleagues about it?

 

My (remaining) finger-tips are burning.

 

Not with the implications of a Mezzanine on BRegs, no  They know there are Reg B issues around Fire Safety, but apparently a bit of research is needed to identify the exact implications. Time which we dont have at present, so we've officially continued with the assumption there will be no mezzanines and told the engineers to compensate for their eventuality.

[Ian]

@Visti

Given that you won't be building the mezzanine now the main design issue that you need to look at in order to future proof the design is Part B of the Building Regs (Fire Escape).

This is the relevant extract from Part B for England:

 

 

Edited March 16, 2018 by Ian