Loft extension - Steel support building control
I live in West Yorkshire, England and currently getting a front and rear biggish loft extension done, costing lower 6 digit figure. This is being done under 2 applications, planning permission and permissible development. An architect and structural engineer was appointed and local council building control was appointed.
There are some deviations that the builder is making to the structure build. I understand sometimes there are several correct ways to do things.
First one is that I requested, removal of chimney breast. This is a detached bungalow but we took that decision after the plans etc. The two that concern me are:
- He has made some changes to the steel and added some extra steel that he mentioned was necessary to make the structure robust.
- The steel isn't supported on padstones as the structural engineer suggested. The builder claims steel shims are enough and padstones aren't needed as the bricks are strong. Secondly there isn't enough space for padstones to go under steels. There is no way to see this myself as it is now covered by mortar but he said I will show you when additional steel is put.
I spoke to the building control and they started warning me that any alterations to drawings should be submitted again. Also mentioned it is my my responsibility to ensure the building control visits happen.
The builder is progressing very fast and is assuring me he has booked in control inspector visit for tomorrow. He advises me against speaking to council as it panics them. He says he knows the building control inspector and he would be ok once he explains it and that I can also ask any questions to the inspector when he is here.
Is it all ok and am I just panicking or my worries are correct? The builder is a good well recommended, polite guy who has done lots of work around here. Which also means he has his own set ways he has developed over years, right or wrong.