Your Beginner’s Guide

When it comes to planning permission and building regulations, it’s easy to assume that only changes made with bricks and mortar need to be approved. That’s not true, though! Fabrication, such as architectural metalwork, can require permission and have to meet the same guidelines as any other kind of construction work. Here’s what you need to know, along with the importance of working with a provider of metal fabrication London property owners trust.

What kind of metal fabrication needs to meet planning and construction guidelines?

First of all, what do we mean when we talk about metal fabrication? It’s a really wide-ranging umbrella term, and covers:

• Architectural metalworks
• Balconies and balustrades
• Grilles and louvres
• Fencing and railings
• Handrails
• Gates
• Staircases
• Trims and flashings
• Heritage building repairs
• Windows and doors
• Facades and renderings

Many of the above won’t make a dramatic difference to the appearance of a building, but they do need to comply with all of the construction regulations that apply to any other area of a project. Let’s look at that in a little more detail.

Building regulations

Building regulations can sometimes feel like red tape that gets in the way of your project being completed just how you want it – but they have a really important purpose! By ensuring that your metal fabrication meets all current guidelines, you can be sure that it will pose no threat to others and will last for years to come, too. Let’s think about a metal staircase, for example. It will need to meet certain standards to ensure that it can stand up to day-to-day use and won’t collapse – and complying with these means that you can enjoy a staircase that doesn’t have to be repaired or replaced before its time.

What about listed buildings?

If you live in a building that is listed or in a conservation area, then any metal fabrication will likely need to meet further criteria. This is to ensure that the character and appearance of the building is preserved and that any updates are in keeping with its original appearance. So tread carefully if you are working on a period property, and if in doubt, always get in touch with your local council.

Choosing the right team

How can you be sure that any metal fabrication will comply with planning permissions and building regulations? By choosing a great team! An experienced metal fabrication company will be able to advise you on what changes you can make to your property and point you in the direction of the right authorities if planning permission looks like it is going to be needed. You will also be able to be sure that all work is completed to the highest standards, so you can meet those regulations with ease.

What now?

Whether you are wanting to add some railings or totally change the exterior of your property, getting in touch with a team who have experience in that kind of project is vital. So get in touch with one in your area today!