What are the key issues in design and construction?

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Structures

• Foundations for a conservatory, a garage conversion or a new extension
• Underpinning
• Structural support, steels and lintels
• New openings (windows and doors)
• Removal of internal wall
• Removal of chimney breasts
• Additional load from loft conversions

Fire protection

• Ensuring means of escape
• Smoke and fire alarms
• Fire doors and fire-proofing
• Protection of key structural elements

Protection from damp

• Rising damp or adjacent ground
• Damp around openings
• Damp around chimneys and roof features

Energy efficiency

• Heating
• Lighting
• Insulation including loft, cavity and external wall insulation
• Thermal bridging
• Condensation and ventilation

Drainage

• Foul drainage
• Rain and surface water
• New bathrooms and kitchens
• Adjoining public sewers
  
  

Self-certifying tradespeople

Competent Person schemes for trades such as:

• Replacement windows
• Electrical work
• Roofing
• Gas and oil installations
• Wood burners

Protection from falls

• Guarding ramps, stairs and balconies
• Safety glass

Ventilation

• Healthy ventilation (air bricks and trickle vents)
• Extractor fans
• Ventilation to prevent condensation

Heating

• Safety from carbon monoxide poisoning
• Flues
• Woodburners