Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 May 2022
316. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if advice will be provided on a matter raised in correspondence in regard to loft conversion guidelines (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24695/22]
View answerThe Loft Conversion Guidelines – Protect Your Family – Fire Safety Guidance (2022) are primarily aimed at home owners, builders and designers to highlight the principal issues that need to be addressed when converting a roof space in an existing dwelling house. The publication also aims to support a culture of compliance with the Building Regulations 1997 to 2021.
The Building Regulations 1997 - 2021 set out the legal requirements in Ireland for the construction of new buildings (including houses), extensions to existing buildings as well as for material alterations and certain material changes of use to existing buildings. The related Technical Guidance Documents (Parts A - M respectively) available at: www.gov.ie/en/collection/d9729-technical-guidance-documents/ provide technical guidance on how to comply with the regulations in practical terms. Where works are carried out in accordance with the relevant technical guidance, such works are considered to be, prima facie, in compliance with the relevant regulation(s). Generally, the Technical Guidance Documents provide guidance which relates to non-complex buildings.
In response to the Deputy's question, I wish to confirm that the correspondent's detailed questions have been responded to separately.
In general, it is recommended to seek the advice of a competent professional, who can provide advice specific to the proposed works, and can assist in ensuring that any relevant works comply with the requirements of the Building Regulations.
