I live in a first-floor flat (which I own, block owned by freeholder and managed by management co) and 3 yrs ago another storey was added making the block 5 storeys high, 20 flats in total. At the time, a dividing wall was built around the stairwell and the flat at the top of each flight had their front doors changed to superior fire doors (at the freeholder’s expense).
I’ve just received an email, with an accompanying official report, saying my door now fails the fire regulations on 14 points and must be upgraded asap at my expense.
Surely if the freeholder hadn’t raised the height of the block this would be unnecessary? Or, if they paid for those on the stairwell then they should pay for mine? 3 flats on each floor affected = 12 in total (the ones on the new floor had them fitted at the time).
Would anybody have any experience of this and be able to advise whether it’s worth fighting who pays? I can’t afford a possible 4-figure sum and I’m seething that for 25 years my door was compliant! I’d be very grateful for any tips or suggestions.