Help! Don't think building work won't pass building regs!

[Keepswimmingandswimming]

Feeling very stressed out and would really appreciate some advice!

We started a loft conversion a few weeks. The majority of the loft construction has been done, beams in etc.

Today the builders started building the stairs and they mentioned to my husband that they've had to steepen the angle by 7 degrees because of inaccuracies in the architects drawing (will attest this is correct) meaning the loft floor is higher than originally drawn. This means the new pitch is 49 degrees. But my understanding is that building regs (approved document K) states that a pitch cannot be greater than 42 degrees.

Does anyone know if there is a special clause for loft conversions (it mentions something on the planning portal website but can't find evidence of it)?

Failing that WWYD? We've paid 2/3 of the money so far. I assume they can't easily lower the pitch as then there wouldn't be enough space at the end to pass building regs.

As I see it at the moment, we only have 2 options: Complete it knowing it won't pass and save up to fix it later (so at least we have use of it now) or stop now and save up to fix it (but not be able to use it and have a half constructed dormer)??

How will you fix it later?

The stairs go up into the dormer which doesn't reach the edge of the property so I guess we'd have to move the dormer out to drop the pitch of the stairs.

You should have building control in at certain stages , although it may not seem like it they are on the side of the home owner ensuring that everything is built to a standard , have a word with them , get them to come out before continuing with the build , they usually come same or next day , I've always found them very helpful in suggesting solutions and working with you to achieve a good result , I personally would not continue until it is checked , altered if necessary and passed at this stage

Thank you for replying. I know they've had the building inspector out at various stages, but I don't have contact details. I'll try building control Monday thank you.

Can they not add an extra step to the stairs (if there is a space, or is that what you mean about them going right into the dormer?). Might add some additional cost, but sounds like the stairs are being made bespoke if they can steepen the angle.

Also does this mean that the loft ceiling is going to be too low now as well?

The loft ceiling is fine from what I've read, but I'll confirm with building control when I speak to them about the stairs.

Yes that is what I mean about it going into the dormer. I don't think they can add an extra step without the distance from the top of the stairs to the wall of the dormer being too short.

You could use space-saver stairs as long as there is only one room in the loft.
BUT they're awful things, and you have to get your feet in the right order before attempting them.
Definitely contact Building Control and ask for a visit on Monday - they might be able to come up with a solution? Explain what has happened re- the discrepancy with the plans.

Can you add a turn at the top or bottom for 2 or 3 steps?

Yes add a turn!

Pinterest has loads of staircase designs for lofts - definitely add a turn!

Thanks everyone for your help, I'll go browse Pinterest as I can't figure out how we could add a turn.

Could you not get in touch with the architect who prepared the plans? They should come up with a solution.

Yes - this is your architect's problem not yours!! That's what their professional indemnity is for - when they balls up measurements!

Thank you everyone. Relieved to report that after having had several people out over the last couple of days and the builders working hard with building control, I think we have a workable solution.

No one suggested getting the architect back out but they've caused so much mayhem with their inability to use a tape measure / do basic maths that no one was going to give them a warm welcome. You live and you learn - we never thought to check the measurements or maths when we received the drawings and they do say they're a guide only and measurements need to be confirmed on site.

That's a very good update , I'm pleased it's all working out , building control and builders working together you will get a good result