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Conversions - General
Upvc windows and doors, internal wall, plumbing
I’m looking into changing my kitchen window from an 8ft window into a small window and patio doors, the overall width wouldn’t be any larger than the existing window.
I’m also looking to build an internal wall in the utility room to create a small downstairs w.c and would need the current back door changing from a upvc door to a window. But with the wc created the utility room wouldn’t have a window, would that be acceptable?
There would also need to be piping moved in the kitchen and some installed in the utility room and wc and a light moving and a new one installed to create a light in both the utility room and wc
I am looking for any advice on how to get started with these modifications, would I need to get planning permission? What tradesmen would I need? Would it be better to get the piping moved and installed before the door and window changes? The pipe work will be close to the doors and windows, currently it’s all upvc so I don’t know how the waste pipes would be put out? Should I get the doors and windows done (with small walls parts) first and then the pipes? I don’t want to make the jobs harder than they need to be.
1 Answer from a MyBuilder Conversion Specialist
You shouldn't need planning permission but just to be safe I would advise that you give your local planning people a call and go through it with them. Better safe than sorry!
All of the work you mention apart from the electrics can be done by a general builder type. I could certainly do it all apart from the electrics.
The order of things done is best asked of the people who do the work, some prefer things done one way and others might prefer a different way or be happy to work around the job either way.
The wc without a window will need a vent installing. This is not a major issue so don't worry about that adding anything major to the cost.
The only issues you might have are for new windows having to be fitted by FENSA people/being inspected on completion. The planning people will clarify this.
The electrics, assuming that they are in a room with water, kitchens, bathrooms, wc's, utility rooms, etc must be done by a qualified electrician who checks it and signs it off.
Despite many people being more than capable of doing the job, new laws prevent us from doing anything more than change existing switch/plug socket fascia or light fittings. Adding anything is no longer allowed unless signed off.
If you are in mid-south Wales let me know I will be happy to come and quote.
Answered 7th Jan 2019
