Jax Pearson

Thanks for this information Anthony B - that's very interesting. Yes our fire alarm system set up is for simultaneous evacuation procedure with a common alarm that extends into the flats - so everything is linked. I'll have a good look at the rest of your response and see if we can look at alternatives. Again, thank you for your help

This is what he has said: Whilst I accept in principle the project does not constitute a material change of use, given the extent of the alterations the communal escape provisions and flat layouts needs to be fully compliant with ADB. This will also help ensure compliance with the RRFSO but of course a fire risk assessment and maintenance procedures will still need to be carried out. The fire service can be contacted for further details about your legal obligations under the RRFSO. The alterations he is referring to is that we have reconfigured the layout of the flats - but the building is 1930's steel portal building with brick infill. We have removed internal stud walls and reconfigured the layout (not structural work). First floor - was 2 x 1 bedroom flats and it is still 2 x 1 bedroom flats Second floor - was 1 x 3 bedroom flat and has been reconfigured to 1 x 2 bedroom flat

Why would a building inspector insist we installed a AOV Smoke ventilation system in a 3 floor building with 2 x 1 bedroom flats on the first floor and 1 x 2 bedroom flat on the second floor. Ground floor is commercial. We have been renovating the flats and have upgraded insulation / fire alarm systems / new FD30S fire doors / new windows / new electrics / new plumbing etc. They have agreed that there is no material change of use but insisted on an AOV Smoke Vent in an existing building located in a conservation area. I understand about AOV smoke ventilation in new builds or buildings with change of use - but didn't think that this would apply to an existing building. Why would they insist on this and are there any alternatives? The layout of the existing stairs and the planning implications (conservation area) are becoming a nightmare Can anyone give us advice on this?