Existing flats to meet current B.regs?

[noopin]

I've got into my head the notion that, if B.reg. approval is sought for a new piece of work or improvement to an existing (in this case) flat, then the whole building must be brought up to current standards.
I want to install an external, first floor, access/fire escape stair to the rear of a flat occupying the first and second floors. This will need B.reg approval, and I'm concerned that other aspects of the existing construction (eg. sound proofing, fire resistance to floors) will be looked at. These were deemed OK thirty years ago, but wouldn't be today.
Are new works dealt with in isolation, without reference to the rest of the structure?

[noopin]

Okay, then, let's put it this way - flats that were converted, let's say, fifty years ago. Virtually no sound proofing, fire resistance or proper compartmentalisation. At what point, or under what circumstances, does a landlord become liable for upgrading the structure?

[baldelectrician]

Hope you don't live in Scotland;
One of my clients has altered a flat (internal walls moved) .He had to install additional fire resistance and sound proofing

He is also having to do the same stuff when he is converting an old shop into a flat- he is also having to put in disabled ramps.

[jeffrey]

Okay, then, let's put it this way - flats that were converted, let's say, fifty years ago. Virtually no sound proofing, fire resistance or proper compartmentalisation. At what point, or under what circumstances, does a landlord become liable for upgrading the structure?

L is not liable to upgrade anything under L&T legislation. However, L is liable:
a. to repair/maintain in accordance with s.11 of LTA 1985; and
b. to comply with local authority enforcement measures on public health/safety (just as an owner-occupier would be liable).

[Planner]

Okay, then, let's put it this way - flats that were converted, let's say, fifty years ago. Virtually no sound proofing, fire resistance or proper compartmentalisation. At what point, or under what circumstances, does a landlord become liable for upgrading the structure?

As Jeffery has so kindly pointed out that the L&T Legislation isn’t relevant (useful if anyone ever asks that question), I will point out what is useful.

If you are doing work under Part B, then there maybe a requirement to update some of the other areas of the building, but certainly not all of it.

So Noopin wants to install an external fire escape. This is obviously covered by Part B. Dependant on a number of things, including height of flat etc, Noopin may also be required to ensure that the walls/cellings of the room/corridor where the new stairs are accessed are also upgraded to meet Part B on fire resistance etc. In addition, Noopin will be required to ensure that the "means of detection (i.e. fire alarms etc)" are in accordance with Part B for all areas that will use the new escape.