Windows & Door fitting

Should a builder know about relevant buildings regulations for new windows?

Anonymous user 23/02/2024 - 2.51 PM

Hi, I live in a conservation zone and applied for planning permission to install two new sash windows, and some French doors. I engaged a builder who had done work for me previously to quote for putting the windows in. I took him up on the quote and had the windows and French doors installed in April this year. All seemed fine (they look great and no problem structurally or anything like that). The same builder had the building inspector out to sign off on an RSJ installation and drainage replacement at my property, which was done last year, but the inspector had to come back and check out all the fire resistance plasterboard around the RSJ etc. On this visit, I casually asked the building inspector about the windows as it occurred to me then that I might need them signed-off. It now turns out that I do, and that actually the windows that have been installed do not meet the regs, because they are on a boundary wall and are in breach of Part B re fire safety. Building inspector says they either need to be smaller, or must be hardwood frame with 30 minute fire resistant glass. This is clearly going to cost me money. The builder is trying to wash his hands of the situation, saying he didn't know the regulations would apply. I have said to him that as a professional builder, he has an obligation to understand whether any work he is undertaking is covered by building regulations. He has also built and installed an ensuite, which he didn't mention about building regs for. Am I right to ask him to take some responsibility? Thanks Phil