Conversion of bread and breakfast building into flats with courtyard to the rear
1. Planning Permission and Building Regulations:
- Change of Use: The most crucial step is obtaining planning permission for a "change of use" from a B&B (typically classified as a commercial property) to residential flats. This involves submitting a planning application to the local council, which will assess factors like the impact on the neighborhood, parking provision, and the suitability of the building for residential use.
- Building Regulations: Once planning permission is granted, you'll need to ensure the conversion complies with building regulations. This covers aspects like fire safety, sound insulation, ventilation, and structural integrity.
2. Structural Alterations:
- Layout Changes:Converting a B&B often requires significant internal layout changes to create self-contained flats. This might involve:
- Dividing larger rooms into smaller living spaces.
- Adding walls to create separate bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
- Reconfiguring plumbing and electrical systems to serve individual flats.
- External Changes:Depending on the property and planning permission, you might need to make external changes, such as:
- Adding or altering windows and doors to provide separate entrances for each flat.
- Creating or improving parking areas.
- Modifying the building's facade to suit its new residential purpose.
3. Services and Utilities:
- Plumbing and Drainage: The existing plumbing system will likely need to be extended or modified to provide water supply and drainage for each flat's kitchen and bathroom.
- Electrical Systems: The electrical wiring and distribution board may need upgrading to handle the increased demand from multiple flats. Each flat will require its own electrical circuits and meter.
- Heating and Ventilation: Each flat will need its own heating system, whether it's a central heating system, individual boilers, or electric heaters. Adequate ventilation systems are also essential, especially in bathrooms and kitchens.
- Fire Safety: Fire safety is paramount. This includes installing fire alarms, smoke detectors, and emergency lighting in each flat and communal areas. Fire-resistant materials may be required for walls and floors.
4. Interior Design and Finishes:
- Individual Flats: Each flat should be designed to be self-contained, with its own living area, kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom(s). The size and layout of the flats will depend on the building's size and the target market.
- Communal Areas: If the building has communal areas like hallways or gardens, these will need to be maintained and decorated appropriately.
- Finishes: The interior finishes, such as flooring, wall coverings, and paint, should be chosen to create a comfortable and appealing living environment.
5. Other Considerations:
- Party Wall Agreements: If the B&B shares walls with neighboring properties, you'll need to obtain party wall agreements with the owners before starting any work that could affect the shared walls.
- Professional Help: Converting a B&B into flats is a complex project that often requires the expertise of architects, structural engineers, builders, electricians, plumbers, and other professionals.
- Costs: The cost of converting a B&B into flats can vary significantly depending on the size of the building, the extent of the work required, and the quality of the finishes. It's essential to have a detailed budget and contingency plan in place.
