PVM Building

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e info@pvmbuildingcontrol.co.uk

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Residential Properties

Many Approved Inspectors only work in the commercial field, but PVM Building Control Services Ltd can be used as your building control body for all domestic building work; we are approved to do so by the CIC on behalf of the Secretary of State.

PVM Building Control Services are one of the providers for building control certification in the domestic field. We have many years experience checking and certifying domestic works in and around Suffolk and Norfolk. Projects include new build dwellings, conversion to dwellings, extensions, loft conversions and alterations.

Fire Safety
Most homes only need a simple smoke detection system with detectors in landings and halls, along with the provision on escape windows to certain rooms. Fire doors are often needed around stairwells when these are on a protected route, particularly on loft conversions. Open plan lounges are an area of particular concern, as a fire there could cut off escape from the inner rooms. Extra detection and sometimes sprinklers will be necessary in these cases. PVM Building Control Services can refer you to a fire engineer for non-standard designs.

Energy Conservation
Newly created dwellings require SAP 2009 calculations. Extensions with large amounts of glazing may also require an ‘area weighted’ calculation or a full SAP calculation to ensure compliance. Energy Performance Certificates are required for new dwellings at end of works and air tightness tests will generally be needed as part of ensuring energy efficiency for these projects.

Planning may often ask for additional items under the requirements for the Code for Sustainable Homes.

PVM Building Control Services can help advise you on any of these matters or refer you to consultants.

Access for the disabled
Access and facilities for the disabled need to be considered; a level entrance is usually required for new dwellings, together with a toilet on the entrance storey (door opening outwards).

Structure
Often structural calculations are needed in support of the design – for steel beams in lofts or over openings, or for unusual foundations etc.

Help from Consultants
PVM Building Control Services can refer you to consultants for the required assessments (structural engineers, energy and acoustic assessors, or fire safety engineers). This independent advice would then form a comprehensive package for your project.

Commercial Properties

Flats, Shops, Offices, Industrial units, Educational and Health Care buildings
PVM Building Control Services Ltd can be used as the building control body for all commercial buildings, approved to do so by the CIC on behalf of the Secretary of State.

Fire Safety
For commercial work (including the common parts of flats) we need to carry out consultations with the Fire Authority with reference to the means of escape and access for fire fighters and vehicles. Particular attention needs to be given where there is sleeping accommodation, usually needing smoke detectors and smoke ventilation of common stairs and lobbies. Likewise basements/basement carparks need particular care and ventilation.

Consultation with the Fire Authority is required under the Regulatory Order for buildings which the public may use or where people are employed. As part of this Order employers are required to carry out a Fire Safety Risk Assessment.

Energy Conservation Commercial buildings will require SBEM thermal calculations (with a Target Emission Rate compared to the Building Emission Rate). Flats require SAP 2009 calculations. Energy Performance Certificates are also required at end of works and air tightness tests will usually be needed as part of the energy assessment for these projects.

Planning may often ask for additional items under the requirements for the Code for Sustainable Homes.

PVM Building Control Services can help advise you on any of these matters or refer you to consultants.

Access for the disabled
Access and facilities for the disabled also need to be considered in some detail, often with an access statement, covering the provision for disabled toilets and facilities (showers, changing rooms, lowered counters etc). Wheelchair refuges by stairs may also be needed where users can await rescue in a fire.

Structure
Often structural calculations are needed in support of the design – for steel columns or beams, or for unusual foundations etc.

Help from Consultants
PVM Building Control Services can refer you to consultants for the required assessments (structural engineers, energy and acoustic assessors, or fire safety engineers). This independent advice would then form a comprehensive package for your project.