Guide to Conversion of Traditional Buildings
This guidance provides a technical insight into the conversion of Scotland’s traditional buildings, balancing building regulation compliance with conservation. It promotes a holistic, risk-based approach to technical compliance in the performance of traditional buildings.
2.8 Spread from neighbouring buildings
Mandatory Standard
Standard 2.8
Every building must be designed and constructed in such a way that in the event of an outbreak of fire in a neighbouring building, the spread of fire to the building is inhibited.
2.8.1 Application of standard to conversions
In the case of conversions, as specified in regulation 4, the building as converted shall meet the requirements of this standard in so far as is reasonably practicable, and in no case be worse than before the conversion (regulation 12, schedule 6).
2.8.2 Issues to be considered
Typical risks in the conversion of historic/traditional buildings
1. Non-combustible roofs There should be little or very little impact on the historic fabric if the roof coverings are non-combustible.
2. Combustible roofs In the case of thatched roofs, the “Dorset model” of fire protection should be used when re-thatching as the thatch itself considered expendable in case of fire.
Contact
Email: buildingstandards@gov.scot