AprU 2005 edition

Effective from July 2005

STAN DARDS
for
Conversions and renovations
INTRODUCTION
Conversions and Renovations

CONTENTS Clause Page

INTRODUCTION 1

Technical Requirements Ri — R6 3

Procedural flowchart 6
Survey of existing building Cl 7

Design Standard C2 7
Completed work C3 7
Building Regulations C4 8
Insured guarantees/warranties CS 8
Wood rot and beetle infestation C6 8
Vermin and pest infestation C7 9
Foundations C8 9
Basements and structural
waterproofing (tanking) C9 10

Drainage below ground ClO 11

Groundfloors Cli 11

Walls C12—C15 12
Chimneys and flues C16 16
Upper floors C17&C18 16
Staircases, stairways and landings C19 17
Pitched roofs C20 17
Flat roofs and balconies C21 18

Roof drainage C22 19

Framed buildings C23 & C24 19

Doors, windows and glazing C25 20
ioinery C26 20
Floor, wall and ceiling finishes C27 21
Services C28 — C33 21
Painting and decorating C34 22
External works C35 — C39 22
Provision of information C40 & C41 23

APPENDIX A
Useful contacts and relevant publications 24

APPENDIX B
Survey(s) of existing buildings 26

introduction NHBC Standards for conversions and Renovations

Effective: July 2005 April 2005 edition

Conversions and Renovations
PURPOSE
The Standards for Conversions and Renovations
provide guidance on the type of project that will
be acceptable to NHBC, the scope of the survey(s)
and work that will be required.
WHAT ARE 'CONVERSIONS
AND RENOVATIONS'?
Conversions and renovations are projects that
involve work to existing buildings or parts of
existing buildings. Examples include:
• the conversion of industrial or commercial
buildings into housing
• the conversion of an existing residential building
into flats
• the addition of an additional storey to an
existing building
• the renovation of an existing residential building.
WHICH STANDARDS APPLY?
New work that forms part of the conversion or
renovation should be carried out in accordance
with the NHBC Standards.
Other conversion or renovation work should be
carried out in accordance with these Standards for
Conversions and Renovations.
The Standards for Conversions and Renovations
current at the time work is started, shall apply.
SURVEY(S)
The builder should arrange for survey(s) of the
building to be carried out in accordance with Clause
Cl before applying to NHBC for Buildmark cover.
A copy of the survey report(s), including any specialist
reports, should accompany the application for
Buildmark cover. The reports will be used to establish
if the project is acceptable for Buildmark cover.
NHBC may impose specific requirements for
the project, which must be complied with as a
condition of providing Buildmark cover.
NHBC relies on the details supplied by the builder
when it accepts a project for Buildmark cover.
Acceptance of a project does not absolve the
builder from obligations under the Rules and
Buildmark in respect of any defects, whether or
not they are located in parts of the building covered
by the reports or NHBC's specific requirements.
NHBC 5tandards for Conversions and Renovaflons
Aprii 2005 edition
INTRODUCTION
L
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
The Technical Requirements are printed in red.
They are mandatory and MUST be met by
the builder.
Technical Requirements Ri to R5 inclusive
are the same as those in the NHBC Standards
Chapter 1.1 'Introduction to the Standards and
Technical Requirements'.
Technical Requirement R6 relates specifically
to the Standards for Conversions
and Renovations.
PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
The Performance Standards are printed in dark blue
and will assist builders in meeting the Technical
Requirements, By meeting each Performance
Standard the Technical Requirement will be met.
Alternative standards of performance will be
acceptable ONLY if, in the opinion of NHBC,
the Technical Requirements are met and the
standard achieved is not lower than the stated
Performance Standard,
GUIDANCE
Guidance on how the Performance Standard may be
met is printed in light blue.
Guidance is based on normal construction procedures
and recommended practices that have been shown to
be satisfactory and acceptable over time.
Due to the scope of buildings which could be
considered for conversion or renovation, the guidance
may need to be varied for particular cases. NHBC will
consider other methods proposed to meet specific
requirements, subject to consultation and evaluation.
Some irregularities in the existing background and
finish, beyond normal building tolerances, may be
acceptable for conversions and renovations.
INTERPRETATION
Occasionally there may be disagreements on how
Technical Requirements and Performance Standards
are to be interpreted. Such cases are usually resolved
through further consultation, failing which, NHBC will
exercise its right to decide,
Page 1 of 31
Effective: Juiy 2005
 INTRODUCTION
Conversions and Renovations

TESTING
To establish whether the existing building or parts of
it are adequate it may be necessary to carry Out tests,
both on the structure and materials that are to be
retained. These tests (where required) will be at the
builders expense.
Tests on the structure to be retained shall be in
accordance with European or National Standards as
appropriate. Where suitable tests are not specified in
European or National Standards, then builders may
be required to obtain the services of a specialist to
determine them.
New materials, reclaimed or retained materials
shall comply with Technical Requirement R3.

STANDARDS, CODES OF
PRACTICE AND OTHER
AUTHORITATIVE DOCUMENTS
Where the Standards for Conversions and
Renovations refer to:
• NHBC Standards
• European Standards
• British Standards
• Codes of Practice
• Authoritative documents or
• Technical approval certification
the documents shall be the editions Current at the
time the work is started unless otherwise agreed by
NHBC in writing.
The Standards for Conversions and Renovations
contain references to authoritative documents.
These references are not exhaustive and NHBC
will consider recommendations from other
authoritative organisations.

LIMITATIONS ON USE
The Technical Requirements, Performance Standards
and Guidance do not form a complete specification
and should not be used as such in contracts.

Page 2 of 31 NHBC Standards for Conversions and RenovaSons

Effective. iuiy 200S April 2005 edition
 TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
Conversions and Renovations
The builder shall ensure that the work complies with the Technical Requirements
Ri Statutory requirements
Work shall comply with all relevant
Building Regulations and other
statutory requirements relating to
the completed construction work
In England, Wales and the Isle of Man,
NHBC will generally accept work that accords
with the relevant Approved Documents and
their supporting documents. Exceptions would
be where NHBC has a higher standard or where
there is doubt as to whether the recommendation
in the Approved Document is appropnate to a
particular application.
In Scotland and Northern Ireland, account
shall be taken of the relevant Building Standards
and Regulations.
Building Regulations and rules of Statutory
Authorities primarily cover matters of health
and safety. Matters affecting durability and
serviceability also need to be considered.
NHBC Standards do not apply to:
• health and safety matters relating to
building operations
• handling and use of certain building materials
• planning matters.
R2
Design requirement
Design and specification shall
provide satisfactory performance
Account shall be taken of.
(a) The land quality, including
(i) climate
(ii) topography
(if) geology and ground conditions
(iv) contamination
(v) workings below ground
(vi) previous use of the site
(vii)any other aspect, on or adjacent to the site,
which could affect the design.
Where appropriate, the land quality will have to be
determined by a person acceptable to NHBC
NHBC Standards tar Conversns and RenovaSons
Aprii 2005 edison
(b) The structural adequacy of the works. The design,
with appropriate factors 0f safety, should
satisfactorily allow for loads during and after
construction and for their transfer to the
supporting structure, or foundation, without
undue movement, including
(i) self weight
(U) all imposed loads, including wind loads
(if) construction loads.
(c) The geographical location of the site, including:
(i) climate
(ii) topography
(d) The position of the dwelling on the site, especially
with reference to the dwelling's exposure to the
weather, including exposure at early stages in
the development of a site, even if it is eventually
protected by structures built later
le) The position of building elements within the
construction works, including the inter-relationship
of materials and constructions.
)f) The security of the dwellings.
R3 Materials requirement
All materials, products and building
systems shall be suitable for their
intended purpose
The structure of the home shall, unless specifically
agreed otherwise in writing with NHBC, have a life
of at least 60 years Individual components and
assemblies, riot integral to the structure, may have
a lesser durability and need planned maintenance,
repair or replacement during that period.
Proper account shall be taken of the use and
location of materials, products and building
systems in relation to.
• durability of both the structure and
individual components and assemblies
• geographical location
• position on the site
e position within the structure
Materials, products and building systems will normally
be acceptable if they comply with the following
(a) MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS USED FOR
CRITICAL FUNCTIONS
Functions critical to performance are.
structure, fire resistance, weatherproofing,
durability, thermal and sound insulation,
services including heating appliances and flues.
Page 3 ot 31
Ettectioe: Juiy 2005
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
Conversions and Renovations
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
R3 (continued)
Any of the following ere acceptable:
(i) performance in accordance mith standards
set by NHBC,
or
(ii) where no NHBC standard is set, compliance
with the relesant British Standard or equivalent
European Technical Specification approved by a
Committee for Standardisation, provided they
are used in accordance with the relevant Code
of Practice,
or
(is) compliance with standards not lower than
those defined in a relevant British Standard
specification or equivalent, provided their
use is accepted by NHBC,
or
(iv) satisfactory assessment by an appropriate
independent technical approvals authority
accepted by NHBC, including. British Board of
Agrkment (BBA), Building Research Establishment
(BRE) or a body authorised under Annes 4 to
the Construction Products Directive,
or
Ky) use of materials and products in accordance
with well established satisfactory custom and
practice, provided that such custom and practice
is acceptable to NHBC,
or
(vi) acceptance, in writing, by NHBC that the
quality and use is satisfactory.
(hI MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS USED FOR
NON-CRITICAL FUNCTIONS
Compliance with the above acceptance
criteria for critical functions or strictly in
accordance with manufacturers'
recommendations for the specific use.
(cI RECLAIMED MATERIALS
Reclaimed materials may only be re-used with the
prior agreement of NHBC. Independent certification
of suitability may be required.
(d) PROPRIETARY BUILDINO SYSTEMS
Reference should be made to R3)a), (iv).
(e) TIMBER DURABILITY
Reference should be made to Chapter 2.3 'Timber
preservation (natural solid timber)' (each section).
Note
Equivalents to British Standards or technical approvals
authority shall be those accepted in the UK.
Page 4 at 31
Ettentive: Jny 2005
R4 Workmanship requirement
All work shall be carried out in a
proper, neat and workmanlike manner
The Builder shall ensure that:
(a) the conditions of the materials, products
and the completed work are satisfactory
(b) appropriate precautions are taken to
prevent damage
)c) account is taken of the following:
)i) the requirements of the design
(ii) suitable methods of unloading and handling
(hi) proper protection during storage
(iv) use of correct installation methods
(v) protection against weather during
construction (including escessive heat,
cold, wetting or drying)
lvi) protection against damage by following trades.
R5 Structural design requirement
Structural design shall be carried
out by suitably qualified persons
in accordance with British
Standards and Codes of Practice
The following shall be designed by Chartered Civil
or Structural Engineers whose status (including
professional indemnity insurance) is accepted by NHBC:
(a) foundations on hazardous ground where the
hazard makes special consideration necessary
This would not apply to matters for which NHRC
sets Standards, such as building near trees,
except where specified to the contrary
(b( foundations and superstructure of every
building over three storeys in height
(c) certain types of foundations and retaining walls,
as required in the individual Chapters of the
NHBC Standards
(dl any structural element which is not based
on specific design criteria as laid down in the
Chapters of the NHBC Standards
(e) any dwelling not constructed in accordance
with UK traditional practice.
Other structural elements may be designed by a
Chartered Civil or Structural Engineer or others
whose status (including professional indemnity
insurance) is accepted by NHBC.
NHBc standards tot Conversions and Renovations
Aeni 2005 edition
 TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
Conversions and Renovations
The structural design shall take account of the
durability requirement in Technical Requirement
R3 Materials requirement.
In England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the
Isle of Man, structural design may be undertaken
by the Builder's own Engineer or a Consulting
Engineer employed by the Buildec Where specialist
subcontractors undertake the design, it must be
separately appraised by the Builder's own Engineer
or by a Consulting Engineer employed by the
Builder to ensure that the site investigation,
choice of foundations, siting and construction
of dwellings are properly taken into account and
that the design is appropriate for the loading
and conditions.
In Scotland, the Engineer shall be independent of
the Builder and specialist subcontractoc
Account shall be taken of the following British
Standards and Codes of Practice or their European
equivalents or such codes and standards as may
supersede them:
BS 526B Structural use of timber
BS 562B Code of Practice for use of masonry
BS 5950 Structural use of steel work in building
BS 6399 Loading for buildings
BS 8004 Code of Practice for foundations
65 8t10 Structural use of concrete
Alternatively, designs in accordance with
BS Bt03 'Structural design of low rise buildings'
will be acceptable.
The Builder shall:
• require the Engineer to issue clear instructions
for site personnel
• not permit departure from the design without
the Engineer's written consent
• require the Engineer or his representative to
carry out such inspections as may be required
by NHBC to ensure the adequacy of the design
and construction.
The Builder shall ensure that the Engineer visits the
site during construction:
fi) when the foundations have been designed
under this Technical Requirement, or
(ii) when specifically required by NHBC in
these Standards.
The Engineer shall satisfy himself that the design is
suitable for the conditions encountered on the site
of each dwelling.
NHBC standards tar cnnversians and snnsvassns
Aprii 2005 nditisn
When requested by NHBC, the Builder shall:
• produce such design documents, calculations
and prescribed forms of certification as NHBC
requires for scrutiny
• provide design documents and assembly
instructions, solely for the use of NHBC staff
• arrange for NHBC staff to have access to places
where off-site fabrication is taking place.
R6 Survey requirement for
conversions and renovations
Existing buildings shall be surveyed
to determine their condition and the
work required to bring them into a
durable and habitable state
The survey(s) should be carried out in accordance
with clause Cl.
A detailed survey should be carried out by a
competent and qualified person with relevant
knowledge and experience (e.g an RICS Building
Surveyor), whose status (including professional
indemnity insurance) is accepted by NHBC.
Specialist surveys should be carried out by suitably
qualified and experienced specialist surveyors.
Account shall be taken of:
• the former use of the building
• the present condition of the building
• any previous conversion and renovation works
• the geographical location
• any tests required to confirm the suitability
of the esisting structure and/or materials
• the structural condition of the esisting
building and the effect of the proposed
conversion and renovation works
The application of Technical Requirement R5
is appropriate where the advice of an Engineer
is required
• other specialist advice
• the work necessary to ensure that the building
meets the Technical Requirements
• new work which could affect the existing structure.
Past performance should not be assumed to
satisfy Technical Requirements Ri to R5 as future
durability will be a major consideration.
Page 5 at 51
ttfnctine iniy 2005
 Conversions and Renovations

Procedural flowchart
INITIAL SURVEY INCLUDING DESK TOP STUDY

EXISTING BASEMENT?
PROBLEMS IDENTIFIED WITH
- WOOD ROT?
- BEETLE INFESTATION?
- STRUCTURE?
- CONTAMINATION
- DAMP?
- OTHER SPECIALIST
AREAS?

Page 6 of 31 NHBC Standards for Convernons and Renovations

Effective: July 2005 April 2005 edition
 Conversions and Renovations
SURVEY OF EXISTING BUILDING
Cl Surveys shall be carried out by
competent and qualified persons
with relevant knowledge and
experience, to establish the
current condition of the building
The builder should arrange for thorough internal and
external surveys to assess the condition of the existing
building. The causes of any damage or defect should
be accurately determined and appropriate remedial
work recommended.
The following surveys will normally be necessary
• initial survey
• detailed survey
• specialist survey(s).
The initial survey should include a desktop study
and a walkthrough appraisal of the building.
The detailed survey should be carried out by a
competent and qualified person with relevant
knowledge and experience (e.g. an RICS Building
Surveyor), whose status (including professional
indemnity insurance) is accepted by NHBC.
The specialist survey(s) should be carried Out where
the defect, damage or likely remedial measures are
of a specialist nature Examples include
• structural waterproofing (tanking) of basements
• wood rot
• beetle infestation
• structure
• contamination
• damp-proofing
• wall tie replacement
• asbestos
• drainage.
The survey(s) should include for appropriate
opening up to expose the vulnerable parts of the
building. Where, for whatever reason, parts of
the building are not surveyed, this should be clearly
stated in the report(s). Further survey(s) and
report(s) may be required for these parts.
The residual effects of previous use of the
building e.g. agriculture / industry, should be
established by the survey(s) together with
detailed proposals for remediation
Appendix B provides guidance on items to be
included in the survey(s).
NHBC Standards for Conversions and Renovations
April 2005 edition
Further guidance on surveying existing buildings is
given in various Building Research Establishment
)BRE) publications including:
• BRE — Assessing traditional housing for rehabilitation
• BRE — Surveyors checklist for rehabilitation of
traditional housing.
Appendix A provides details of useful contacts
and a list of publications that are relevant to
conversions and renovations.
A copy of all survey reports should be made
available to NHBC
DESIGN STANDARD
C2 Design shall meet the
Technical Requirements
New work should be designed in accordance with
NHBC Standards.
Conversion and renovation work should be designed
in accordance with these Standards for Conversions
and Renovations
Recommendations contained within the survey
report(s) should be incorporated in the design.
Copies of planning approvals and consents should be
made available to NHBC upon request. NHBC should
be made aware of any planning conditions or
restrictions that could result in a failure to comply with
the Technical Requirements. NHBC will decide on the
most appropriate course of action to resolve the matter.
In certain cases it may be necessary for NHBC to decline
to offer cover for the conversion or renovation
COMPLETED WORK
C3 Completed work shall meet the
Technical Requirements, take account
of the design and follow established
good practice and workmanship
Work should be carried out in accordance with
the design. Recommendations contained within
the survey report(s) should be implemented.
New work should be carried out in accordance with
NHBC Standards
Conversion and renovation work should be carried out
in accordance with these Standards for Conversions
and Renovations
Page 7of 31
Effective Oily OO5
 Conversions and Renovations
BUILDING REGULATIONS
C4
Design and completed work shall
comply with building regulations
INSURED GUARANTEES!
WARRANTIES
C5 Proprietary remedial treatment
relating to wood rot, beetle
infestation, damp-proofing,
structural waterproofing
(tanking), wall tie replacement
and other specialist work shall
be the subject of a suitable
insured guarantee/warranty
Where such work is carried out the
guarantee/warranty should:
• be provided by the specialist contractor
• cover any failure of the work
• cover any consequent opening up and
making good
• remain valid for a minimum period of 20 years
• be in favour of the homeowner (provided
it is automatically transferred at no cost to
subsequent Owners) and NHBC.
The specialist contractor's obligations should be
covered by an insurance policy issued by a UK
registered insurer, which includes cover against
the specialist contractor's insolvency.
The insurance policy should specify the
property covered.
WOOD ROT AND
BEETLE INFESTATION
C6 Specialist advice shall be
obtained to identify all sources of
wood rot and beetle infestation,
and to recommend a suitable
method of elimination. Remedial
work shall be carried Out taking
account of the specialist advice
A suitably qualified and experienced surveyor
should carry Out surveys for wood rot and
beetle infestation. Acceptable qualifications
include CSRT (Certificated Surveyor in Remedial
Treatment) or ASRT (Assessed Surveyor in
Remedial Treatment).
Page tot 3t
Effective: July 2005
Remedial work should:
• be designed by a suitably qualified and
experienced surveyoc and
• be carried Out by a competent specialist
contractor approved by NHBC, and
• be the subject of a suitable insured
guarantee/warranty in accordance with Clause CS.
Members of The Property Care Association,
a division of the British Wood Preserving and
Damp-Proofing Association (BWPDA) backed by
the Guarantee Protection Insurance Ltd meet the
above requirements.
Other surveyors and specialist contractors may be
acceptable subject to NHBC's written acceptance.
Copies of the specialist report detailing the remedial
work and identifying the affected areas, together with
copies of the guarantee/warranty and certificate of
insurance should be made available to NHBC.
(a) wood rot
The remedial work should ensure that:
• the source of all water and damp ingress
is eliminated
• the extent of spread of wood rot is determined
• all rotted wood is removed
• all structurally weakened wood is replaced
with preservative-treated wood or repaired
with a proprietary structural repair resin system.
All sawn ends should be treated with a
fungicide/insecticide preservative
• where rot has been identified, retained wood
is treated with preservative in accordance with
BS 841 7:2003
• any plaster affected by fungi is removed
• any masonry affected by fungi is treated with a
fungicidal fluid.
(b) beetle infestation
The remedial work should ensure that:
• the treatment is appropriate for the type of wood
boring beetle identified
• structurally weakened wood should be replaced by
pre-treated wood or repaired with a proprietary
structural repair resin system.
Additional guidance may be obtained from
'Recognising wood rot and insect damage in
buildings' published by BRE.
NHBC Standards tor Convernons and Renovations
Apvi 2005 edition
 Conversions and Renovations
VERMIN AND PEST INFESTATION
Cl Vermin and pest infestation
in the building shall be
identified and eliminated
Where there is evidence of vermin or pest infestation,
the extent of the damage should be established end
remedial treatment carried out.
The treatment necessary will depend on the type
of vermin or pest. Specialist advice can be obtained
from the British Pest Control Association (BPCA).
The remedial work should include prevention
measures that will reduce the likelihood of re-entry of
the vermin or pest into the building, its fabric or voids.
FOUNDATIONS
C8 Foundations shall be capable
of transmitting existing and
proposed loads to the ground
without excessive movement
New foundations should be designed and
carried Out in accordance with NHBC Standards
Part 4 'Foundations'.
The condition of the existing foundations and
supporting ground should be assessed as part of the
survey(s), and remedial work carried out as necessary
to provide satisfactory in-service performance for the
design life of the building.
Items to be taken into account include:
(a) subsidence and settlement
Where the cause of the failure is weak bearing
strata such as peat layers, fill, etc, foundations
should be strengthened or replaced. This may
involve underpinning or other specialist foundation
techniques. Subsidence caused by clay shrinkage
may also necessitate underpinning.
All underpinning and associated foundation work
should be designed and supervised by an Engineer
or as required by NHBC.
Subsidence caused by mining or other underground
workings will require specialist advice from an Engineer
The Engineer may be required to supervise the work
on site.
The potential for differential settlement between new,
existing and underpinned foundations/structures
should be taken into account.
Where leaking drains have caused foundation failure
they should be replaced. Drains that are to be re-laid
should, if possible, be re-routed so that if leakage
occurs again, foundations will not be affected.
New work should comply with Chapter 5 3
'Drainage below ground'.
NHBC Standards for Conversions and Renovations
April 2005 edition
(b) heave
Foundations that have been damaged by clay
heave, which occurs when desiccated shrinkable
clay re-hydrates and is commonly associated with
moisture recovery following the removal of trees or
vegetation, should be underpinned.
Underpinning should be designed and supervised
by an Engineer or as required by NHBC
Compressible material should be installed as required
by the design to accommodate movement resulting
from further clay heave. Refer to NHBC Standards
Chapter 4.2 'Building near trees', Chapter 4.4 'Strip
and Trench fill foundations' and Chapter 4.5 'Raft,
pile, pier and beam foundations', as appropriate.
Foundation design should take account of existing,
removed and proposed planting.
(c) chemical attack
Foundations that have been or could be damaged
by high sulfate levels or other aggressive elements in
the soil or ground water, should be repaired or
replaced as directed by an Engineer.
Additional guidance on the concrete grade to ensure
adequate durability may be obtained from
• NHBC Standards Chapter 2.1 'Concrete and
its reinforcement'
• BS 8S00
• BS EN 206-1
• BRE Special Digest 1.
(d) frost damage
Damage that has been caused by frost heave in
susceptible soils or by ice formation in the pores of
poorly compacted concrete should be repaired or
replaced as directed by an Engineer. Frost damage
normally occurs to very shallow foundations.
The effect of frost heave can be overcome by
deepening the foundations by underpinning
This should be designed and supervised by an
Engineer or as required by NHBC. Defective
concrete should be replaced.
(e) adjacent work
Existing foundations that have been damaged
due to the proximity or depth of other foundations
or services, should be repaired or replaced as
directed by art Engineer.
New foundations should be designed so as not to
adversely affect adjacent foundations.
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 Conversions and Renovations
FOUNDATIONS
C8 (continued)
(f) underground erosion
Granular subsoils such as sand and gravel may
suffer from erosion of fine particles by movement
of ground water leading to subsidence.
The introduction of new drains with a granular bed
and surround may also take ground water from the
site and could have the same effect on otherwise
sound existing foundations. Where this is likely,
alternatives should be considered.
(g) changes in loading
The effects of proposed changes to the
superstructure should be taken into account.
The loading on existing foundations may become
excessive or unevenly distributed, necessitating
replacement, underpinning or otherwise improving
inadequate existing foundations.
BASEMENTS AND STRUCTURAL
WATERPROOFING (TANKING)
C9 All elements (including walls, floors
and foundations) forming a basement
shall be suitable for their location
In this Clause the term 'basement' means
construction which is wholly or partly below
ground level and for which normal damp-proofing
arrangements are inappropriate.
New basements should be designed and constructed
in accordance with NHBC Standards Chapter 5.1
'Substructure and ground bearing floors'.
The condition of existing basements should be
assessed as part of the survey(s), and remedial
work carried Out as necessary to provide
satisfactory in-service performance for the design
life of the building.
The design should take account of the British Cement
Association Approved Document "Basements for
dwellings". Its principles should be followed in
England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland
Items to be taken into account include:
(a) structural stability
Any alteration, even temporary, to the loading on
an existing structurally sound basement may cause
structural damage.
Page 10 of 31
Effertive: July 2005
An Engineer should design all structural alterations
to basements, such as
• increasing the height of the retaining walls
• reducing the ability of the floor above to provide
lateral support to the walls
• lowering floor levels to increase ceiling heights
• alterations to the existing applied loadings
• additional loading from adjacent structures.
(b) control of water and damp ingress
Basements should have adequate resistance to
the passage of water/moisture to the inside.
The design should ensure that the level of
protection against water and moisture reaching the
internal surfaces is appropriate for the proposed use.
Where there is any doubt about the use, the level of
protection required for habitable accommodation
should be provided.
Basements to be used for habitable accommodation
should allow no water penetration and provide a dry
environment if maintained by adequate heating and
ventilation. This is referred to as 'Grade 3' in the
"Basements for dwellings" Approved Document.
Walls and floors to basements to be used for parking
cars, for storage or as plant rooms should allow no
water penetration (unless a type C drained cavity)
although moisture vapour is tolerated This is referred
to as 'Grade 2' in the "Basements for dwellings"
Approved Document.
It should not be assumed that a wall, which is dry
at the time of the survey, would not cause a problem
at a future date.
Existing basements should be provided with a new
structural waterproofing (tanking) system unless it
can be demonstrated that the existing system will
provide satisfactory in-service performance for the
design life of the building
Structural Waterproofing should:
• be designed by a suitably qualified and
experienced specialist surveyor, and
• be carried out by a competent specialist contractor
approved by NHBC, and
• be the subject of a suitable insured
guarantee/warranty in accordance with Clause CS.
Members of the Structural Waterproofing Group,
a division of the British Wood Preserving and
Damp-proofing Association (BWPDA) backed by the
Guarantee Protection Insurance Ltd will meet the
above requirements and therefore be acceptable.
NHBC Standards for conversions and Renovations
April 2005 edition
 Conversions and Renovations
Where an internal tanking system is used, additional
internal walling and flooring may be necessary
The effect on room size, especially height, should
be taken into account The electrical installation
should be on the dry side of the tanking.
Structural waterproofing (tanking) should be
continuous unless designed service inlets are
provided Fisings should not penetrate the tanking.
Tanking should be in accordance with 8S8102,
or satisfactorily assessed in accordance with
Technical Requirement R3.
(c) condensation
Adequate provision should be made to prevent surface
and interstitial condensation within the basement.
The following should be considered
• appropriate ventilation
• adequate heating
• appropriate insulation
• avoiding cold bridging
• treatment of hygroscopic salts contained in walls
and floors
• removal of water vapour from kitchens
and bathrooms.
Further guidance is given in the British Cement
Association Approved Document 'Basements for
dwellings' and the BRE guide 'Thermal insulation.
avoiding risks'.
DRAINAGE BELOW GROUND
ClO Drainage 5ystems shall convey foul
effluent and rainwater satisfactorily
to an appropriate outfall
Drainage systems should have adequate capacity for
the proposed use of the building and take account of
the number of people who will use it
New drainage should be designed and constructed in
accordance with NHBC Standards Chapter 5.3
'Drainage below ground'.
Items to be taken into account include:
(a) Existing drainage
Existing drainage should be replaced unless it can be
demonstrated that it will provide satisfactory in-service
performance for the design life of the building
Where it is proposed to retain existing drainage,
a thorough survey of the whole system, including
a CCTV survey, should be carried out to establish
its current condition, including access points and
connections to main sewers.
NHBC 5tandads for Conversiorrs and Renovations
Aprii 2005 edition
The report of the CCTV survey should identify
which drainage runs require repair or replacement.
A copy of the report should be made available
to NHBC.
Disused drains should be removed or sealed to
prevent the entry of vermin and the possibility of
future collapse
(b) access
Where the existing drainage system is to be retained,
and lengths do not have rodding access in accordance
with cLirrent requirements, additional access points
should be provided
(c) inspection chambers, manholes, interceptors,
septic tanks and cesspools
Existing inspection chambers and manholes may need
rebuilding e.g walls of manholes may need upgrading
due to inadequate structural sufficiency or ground
water ingress etc.
Inspection chambers and manholes located
within habitable parts of the building will not
normally be acceptable.
New covers will be required where existing covers
are defective or where chambers will be subject to
increased loading. Locked covers to prevent
accidents may be required.
Existing interceptors should normally be removed
from the drainage system.
NHBC will normally reject any proposal to retain
existing septic tanks or cesspools
GROUND FLOORS
Cli Ground floors shall have adequate
durability and support and transfer
loads to the substructure or the ground
safely without undue movement, and
shall resist the passage of moisture,
contaminants and gases to the inside
of the building
New ground floors should be designed and
constructed in accordance with NHBC Standards
Chapters 5.1 'Substructure and ground bearing
floors' or 5,2 'Suspended ground floors'.
The condition of existing floors should be
assessed as part of the survey(s), and remedial
work carried Out as necessary to provide satisfactory
in-service performance for the design life of
the building.
The effect of any change in loading should be taken
into account. In some cases, e.g. listed buildings,
specialist advice may be required.
Page t t of 31
Ettectixe. Juiy 2005
 Conversions and Renovations
GROUND FLOORS
Cli (continued)
Items to be taken into account include:
(a) ground bearing floors
Ground bearing floors that have suffered damago
should be removed and replaced in accordanco with
NHBC Standards Chapter 5.1 'Substructure and
ground bearing floors'.
(b) damp-proofing of ground bearing floors
Whore esisting concrete ground bearing floors
do not have adequate protection against damp from
the ground, a new dpm, linked to the dpc should
be provided. It is unlikely that floors laid before
the mid 160's will have adequate protection
against damp
Appropriate dpm materials are listed in NHBC
Standards Chapter 5 1 'Substructure and ground
bearing floors' (Materials section).
If the esisting floor is other than concrete (e.g. flags
laid directly on consolidated sub soil), specialist advice
should be followed
(c) suspended timber floors
Where esisting timber joists do not have adequate
protection against damp, appropriate damp-proofing
work should be carried out to ensure durability.
Where timber joists built into solid walls are
showing signs of rot (particularly at loist ends),
remedial work should be carried out in
accordance with Clause C6.
joists shown to be inadequate by the survey should
be strengthened, strutted, or reduced in span, or
additional joists should be added as appropriate.
The effects of long-term creep deflection should
be taken into account
Joists with excessive notches and/or holes should
be replaced or a structural repair carried out.
(d) sub-floor voids
Voids beneath existing timber ground floors
should be ventilated by openings providing not
less than 1500mm2 of open area per metre run
of external wall on two opposite sides.
Where the lower surface of the void is below
ground level and there are indications of previous
flooding, then:
• the level of the void should be raised, provided
ventilation and durability are not compromised, or
• the void should be drained to an appropriate
outfall, or
Pate 2 et 3t
tttectise: JvIv 2005
• land drains should be provided to the perimeter
of the building to prevent the void being flooded.
The land drains should be connected to
a suitable outfall.
Any debris beneath the floor likely to create
dampness or affect the ventilation should be
removed. Vegetation within the sub-floor void
should be removed.
Honeycomb sleeper walls, including dpcs,
should be repaired if defective.
(e) contaminants and gases
New and existing ground bearing or suspended
ground floors should resist the entry of ground
contaminants, radioactive and other toxic or
inflammable gases to the inside of the building.
(1) screeds and other finishes
Damaged screeds and other finishes should be
replaced, together with the reinstatement of any dpm.
(g) flooring/decking
New flooring/decking should be in accordance with
NHBC Standards Chapter 6.4 'Timber and concrete
upper floors'.
Unsound or contaminated flooring/decking
should be removed and replaced Loose boards
should be re-fixed The upper surface may be
improved by punching nail heads and sanding.
WALLS - STRUCTURE
Ci2 Walls shall support and transfer
loads to the foundations safely
and without undue movement
New walls should be designed and constructed in
accordance with NHBC Standards Part 6
'Superstructure (excluding roofs)'
The condition of existing walls should be assessed as
part of the survey(s), and remedial work carried out
as necessary to provide satisfactory in-service
performance for the design life of the building
Items to be taken into account include:
(a) cracking
The cause of any cracking, regardless of width,
should be identified and addressed Further guidance
is given in BRE Digests 25t and 361.
Depending on the number and location, cracks up to
1.5mm width in masonry are generally unobtrusive,
and provided they are not progressive and will not
increase the possibility of moisture ingress, can
normally be left unattended.
NHBC tsandards ler cenversiers and Renexatiovs
Acid 2005 edisian
 Conversions and Renovations
Cracks over 1 5mm wide in masonry should be cut
out and re-stitched to obtain acceptable bonding
and appearance. The reconstruction of panels may
be necessary.
Where work is necessary the following may
be considered:
• cracked bricks or stone may be removed and
replaced with bricks or stone to match the esisting
• cracked joints may be raked out to a depth of
15mm and be re-pointed to match the esisting
• proprietary crack repair resin products
may be used in accordance with the
manufacturers' recommendations.
(b) mortar
Compatible repointing mortar should be used
as follows.
• for esisting mortar of weak to medium strength,
mix proportions of 1:1 :g cement:lime:sand should
be used
• for stronger existing mortar, mix proportions of
1:6 cement:lime:sand should be used
• wetting masonry before applying mortar improves
adhesion (alternatively, a water retaining additive
may be used in the mortar)
• where walls are located in areas of severe
exposure to wind driven rain, the use of polymer
additives in the mortar will increase bond and
durability (in such cases sand should have
negligible clay content)
• proprietary gun-applied pointing systems
may be used, in accordance with the
manufacturer's recommendations.
(c) spalling masonry
Where spating of existing masonry is extensive
and the stability or durability of the wall is adversely
affected, damaged units should be cut out
and replaced
It may be possible to cut out and re-use a
spalled unit with its sound face showing.
Alternatively, adherent colour match compounds
are available but colour may subsequently fade
Where spalling of existing masonry is limited,
damaged units may be retained.
(d) corroded cavity wall ties
Where the extent of corrosion might aftect the
stability or durability of the wall, one of the
following remedial measures should be used.
• demolition and rebuilding of the outer leaf and
installation of suitable new wall ties assessed in
accordance with Technical Requirement R3
NHec standards tor conversions and eenonations
April 2005 edition
• installing proprietary remedial wall ties assessed
in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
This work nhould:
- be designed by a suitably qualified and
experienced specialist surveyor, and
- be carried out by a competent specialist
contractor approved by NHBC, and
- be the subject of a suitable insured
guarantee/warranty in accordance with Clause CS.
Members of the Property Care Association, a division
of the British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing
Association (BWPDA) backed by the Guarantee
Protection Insurance Ltd will meet the above
requirements and therefore be acceptable to NHBC.
Other wall tie replacement work may be acceptable
subject to NHBC's written acceptance
Old wall ties should be removed if corrosion is severe.
In less severe cases, a corrosion protection system may
be acceptable with the redundant ties left in place.
(e) damage caused by sulfate attack
BRICKWORK
Suitable work should be carried out to ensure
sources of dampness associated with the sultate
attack are removed. Work could include the repair
or replacement of damaged or ineffective copings
and other weathering details.
Where it is necessary to rebuild parts of walls
damaged by sulfate attack, replacement bricks should
be ot low soluble salt content )L designation) and
mortar should contain sulfate-resisting cement.
NHBC Standards Chapter 6 1 'External masonry
walls' gives guidance on brickwork and
mortar specifications.
RENDER
Where render is damaged by sulfate reaction, it
should be replaced with a suitable mix for the
background (i.e., not stronger than the background)
and should contain Sulfate Resisting Portland
Cement The mis should he appropriate to the
exposure rating of the wall For details of suitable
rendering mixes, see RS 5262.
(f) lintels
Replacement lintels will be required where
• existing lintels or their bearings are defective
(inadequate bearings should also be made good)
• openings other than brick arches do not
have adequate support (e.g. where masonry
is inadequately supported by door and
window frames)
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tttestioe tnl0 2005
 Conversions and Renovations
WALLS - STRUCTURE
C12 (continued)
(f) lintels (continued)
• existing lintels will be subjected to increased
loading and their ability to carry the increased
load cannot be substantiated
Timber lintels where required as replacements for
aesthetic reasons, should be preservative-treated in
accordance with NHBC Standards Chapter 2.3
Timber preservation (natural solid timber).
(g) embedded timber
Timber embedded within solid masonry can be
retained provided there is no evidence of wood rot,
active beetle infestation or other deterioration,
and there are no other changes to the exposure
conditions of the wall. Preservative treatment is
likely to be required.
(h) external ground levels
Levels should be adjusted to ensure the dpc is a
minimum of 150mm above ground level
WALLS - DAMP-PROOFING
C13 Walls shall resist the passage of water
and moisture from the ground
New walls should be designed and constructed in
accordance with NHBC Standards Part 6 'Superstructure
(excluding roofs)'
The condition of the damp-proofing arrangements
for existing walls should be assessed as part of the
survey(s), and remedial work carried Out as necessary
to provide satisfactory in-service performance for the
design life of the building.
It should not be assumed that a wall that is dry at the
time of the survey will not cause a problem at a
future date.
PHYSICAL DAMP-PROOF SYSTEMS
Depending on the existing construction, it may be
possible to install a physical dpc Installation should
be carried out in short lengths. Sheet material dpcs,
normally black polyethylene inserted into a cut, are
acceptable if adequately lapped. The minimum lap
should be 100mm.
Brick dpcs should consist of two courses of clay
dpc bricks or clay engineering bricks to BS EN 771-1,
laid breaking joint and bedded in a 1 :V4 3,
cement:lime:sand mortar. Brick dpcs are only
suitable to resist the upward movement of moisture;
they are not suitable to resist the downward or
lateral movement of water.
Page 14 of 31
tffective: July 200s
CHEMICAL DAMP-PROOF SYSTEMS
A suitably qualified and experienced surveyor
should carry Out surveys for rising dampness.
Acceptable qualifications include CSRT
(Certificated Surveyor in Remedial Treatment) or
ASRT (Assessed Surveyor in Remedial Treatment).
Remedial work should
• be designed by a suitably qualified and
experienced specialist surveyor, and
• be carried out by a competent specialist contractor
approved by NHBC, and
• be the sublect of a suitable insured
guarantee/warranty in accordance with Clause C5.
Members of The Property Care Association, a division
of the British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing
Association (BWPDA) backed by the Guarantee
Protection Insurance Ltd meet the above
requirements.
Other surveyors and specialist contractors may be
acceptable subject to NHBC'x written acceptance.
A copy of the survey report should be made
available to NHBC.
Chemical dpc systems should have independent
certification in accordance with Technical
Requirement R3.
To ensure chemical dpcs will function correctly:
• chemical dpcs should be installed at the
correct level in relation to the level of any
adjacent floor structure
• in the case of timber ground floors the dpc
should be formed below the level of the joist
ends. Alternatively the loists should be
independently supported e.g. on hangers or
sleeper walls
• chemical dpcs in walls adlacent to solid floors
should be linked with the floor dpm
• associated re-plastering work should be
carried Out by the specialist contractor or
approved sub-contractor.
WALLS - WEATHERPROOF ING
C14 External walls shall be suitable for their
exposure and resist the passage of
moisture to the inside of the building
New walls should be designed and constructed
in accordance with NHBC Standards Part 6
'Superstructure (excluding roofs)'.
NHBC Standards for Conversions and Penovations
Aprd 2005 edition
 Conversions and Renovations
The condition of existing walls should be
assessed as part of the survey(s), and remedial
work carried out as necessary to provide
satisfactory in-service performance for the
design life of the building.
Items to be taken into account include.
(a) moisture resistance from outside
Where evidence of water ingress is identified,
preventative measures could include:
• installing a proprietary cladding system assessed
in accordance with Technical Requirement R3
• applying a render system in accordance with NHBC
Standards Chapter 6.1 'External masonry walls'
• installing a proprietary insulated render system
that has been assessed in accordance with
Technical Requirement R3
• re-pointing defective mortar joints
• installing a specialist internal lining system that is
not affected by dampness in the existing wall.
NHBC will not normally accept the use of masonry
paint or the application of surface treatment to
improve moisture resistance.
Attention should be given to openings where
replacement or additional dpcs and trays may
be required.
Existing lintels with evidence of damp
penetration from the outside should be protected
with a suitable tray.
Where cavity insulation is to be installed,
dpc trays are required over all existing openings,
irrespective of previous damp penetration
problems, Further guidance is givon in NHBC
Standards Chapter 6.1 'External masonry walls'.
(b) existing render
Where a crazing pattern of many fine cracks exists but
rendering is not loose, the application of a permeable,
flevible decorative finish is acceptable. If the cracks
extend through the render and the render is hollow,
then it should be removed and replaced.
Where over-strong render has curled away from
the backing, it should be replaced with a suitable
mix for the background (i.e. not stronger than the
background). The miv should be appropriate to
the evposure rating of the wall. For details of
suitable rendering mixes, see ES 5262
(c) existing cladding
Any misting, damaged or loose cladding should be
replaced or re-fixed (see Clause C24). Further guidance
iv given in NHBC Standards Chapter 6 g 'Curtain
walling and cladding'
NHBc standards tnr cnvvvrsisss avd eevnvasxvs
Aerli 2ttt edition
(d) timber frame walls
Specialist advice from an Engineer should be
obtained where repairs to a timber frame building
are required.
Sources of dampness causing rot should be
eliminated before remedial work is carried out
Guidance is given in NHBC Standards Chapter 6 2
'External timber framed walls'.
(e) parapet walls
New parapet walls should be designed and
constructed in accordance with NHBC Standards
Chapter 6.1 'External masonry walls'
Existing parapet walls should be taken down and
re-built unless it can be demonstrated that they are
structurally stable, weathertight and will provide
satisfactory in-service performance for the design
life of the building
Items to be taken into account when assessing
the parapet wall include:
strvctural stability
• evidence of water penetration
• that all necessary cappings, copings, dpcs and
flashings are present
• that the copings will shed water clear of the wall.
The condition of the parapet gutter should
be assessed and where necessary, appropriate
remedial action carried out to ensure satisfactory
in-service performance.
Where the parapet gutter has an upstand on
all sides, an overflow outlet should be provided,
through either the parapet or the upttand.
The size of the overflow outlet should not be less
than the size of the rainwater outlet for outlets if
there are several).
SEPARATING WALLS
05 Separating walls shall have reasonable
resistance to the passage of sound
New separating walls should be designed and
constructed in accordance with the Building Regulations
and NHBC Standards Chapter 6.3 'Internal walls'
The condition of existing separating walls
should be assessed as part of the survey(s), and
remedial work carried out as necessary to provide
satisfactory in-service performance for the design
life of the building
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Eftvctivv' tviy wet
 Conversions and Renovations
SEPARATING WALLS
C15 (continued)
Items to be taken into account include
• the construction and condition of esisting walls
• the removal of any esisting timber or steel lintels
in walls
• adequate making good of previous openings
in walls
• adequate making good of voids and hidden areas
in or around walls
• satisfactory support of new and esisting walls
• satisfactory sealing of penetrations to
accommodate new or esisting services in walls
CHIMNEYS AND FLUES
C16 Chimneys and flues shall be structurally
stable, resistant to the effects of gases
and heat and resistant to the passage
of moisture into the building
New chimneys and flues should be designed!
constructed and installed in accordance with NHBC
Standards Chapter 6.8 Fireplaces chimneys and flues.
The condition of esisting chimneys and flues
should be assessed as part of the survey(s), and
remedial work carried out as necessary to provide
satisfactory in-service performance for the design
life of the building.
The following should be taken into account when
assessing the esisting chimney:
• structural stability
• weatherproofing, e.g. that all necessary cappings,
copings, dpcs and flashings are present and that
water is not penetrating the flue or masonry
• that copings will shed water clear of the chimney
• that the esisting chimney or flue will achieve
satisfactory performance.
Existing chimneys and flues may be unsuitable to
serve new appliances either using the same or a
different fuel, The installation of new appliances
should comply with statutory requirements.
Where dampness has penetrated to the inside of
the dwelling throegh or around the chimney, the
cause should be established and necessary work
undertaken to prevent recurrence. Particular care
should be taken where a room is to be built within
an existing roof space
Page re ot 3t
Ettective' tuiy 2tc5
Where existing chimneys and flues are to be retained
but no longer used they should be fitted with a
suitable capping and be ventilated. The effects of
possible sound transmission through the ventilation
openings should be taken into account.
Where chimneys and flues are to be removed,
they should be either totally removed or have
any parts that remain adequately supported
Where existing mortar has eroded, or is cracked
or crumbling, it should be raked back to sound
mortac Mortar used for re-pointing should
normally be 1.1/2 41/2 SRPC: lime: sand, with
air entraining additive.
Proprietary additives and re-pointing systems should be
used in accordance with manufacturers' instructions.
Where extensive breakdown of the mortar has
occurred, consideration will need to be given to
re-building of the chimney.
Chimney/flue linings should be provided as necessary
to achieve satisfactory in-service performance.
Chimney/flue linings should be in accordance with
Technical Requirement 83 and NHBC Standards
Chapter 6.8 'Fireplaces, chimneys and flues'.
Existing chimneys in some older buildings may
not be suitable for installation of approved linings.
Specialist advice should be sought.
UPPER FLOORS
C17 Upper floors shall have adequate
durability and support and transfer
loads to the supporting structure
safely without undue movement
New upper floors should be designed and
constructed in accordance with NHBC Standards
Chapter 6.4 'Timber and concrete upper floors'.
The condition of existing upper floors should be
assessed as part of the survey(s), and remedial
work carried out ax necessary to provide
satisfactory in-service performance for the design
life of the building.
The effect of any change in loading should be taken
into account
In tome cases, e g. listed buildings, specialist advice
may be required.
Items to be taken into account include:
(a) timber upper floors
Where timber joists built into solid walls are showing
signs of rot (particularly at bitt ends), remedial work
should be carried out in accordance with Clause C6.
NHBC Standards tor Conversiens and Penenasions
Aprii 2005 edition
 Conversions and Renovations
Inadequate joists should be strutted, reduced in span
or have additional joists added as appropriate.
The effects of long-term creep deflection should be
taken into account.
Joists with excessive notches and/or holes should be
replaced or a structural repair carried out.
(b) flooring/decking
New flooring/decking should be in accordance with
NHBC Standards Chapter 6.4 'Timber and concrete
upper floors'.
Unsound or contaminated flooring/decking should
be removed and replaced. Loose boards should be
re-fixed. The upper surface may be improved by
punching nail heads and sanding.
(c) other floors
Structural alterations should only be carried out
on the advice of an Engineer.
(d) screeds and other finishes
Damaged screeds and other finishes should
be replaced.
C18 Separating floors shall have
reasonable resistance to the
passage of sound
New separating floors should be designed and
constructed in accordance with the Building
Regulations and NHBC Standards Chapter 6.4
'Timber and concrete upper floors'.
The condition of existing separating floors
should be assessed as part of the survey(s),
and remedial work carried out as necessary to
provide satisfactory in-service performance for
the design life of the building.
Items to be taken into account include:
• the construction and condition of existing floors
• adequate making good of previous openings
in floors
• adequate making good of voids and hidden areas
in or around floors
• satisfactory support of new and existing floors
• satisfactory sealing of penetrations to
accommodate new or existing services in floors.
Remedial work should be in accordance with
Clause C17.
NHBC Standards for Conversions and Renovations
April 2005 edition
STAIRCASES, STAIRWAYS
AND LANDINGS
C19 Staircases, stairways and landings
shall provide a safe passage for users
New staircases, stairways and landings should
be in accordance with NHBC Standards Chapter
6.6 'Staircases'.
The condition of existing staircases, stairways and
landings should be assessed as part of the survey(s),
and remedial work carried out as necessary to provide
satisfactory in-service performance for the design life
of the building.
Items to be taken into account include:
(a) suitability of existing structure
Staircases and stairways should be suitable for the
new use of the building. Where an existing private
staircase becomes a common staircase it will be
subject to increased design loads. This should be a
consideration in deciding if the existing staircase can
be retained.
Timber staircases that have been in damp conditions
may be unsound due to rot and should be replaced.
Staircases that are to be retained may require
suitable repair.
(b) rise and going
The thickness of new screeds and floor finishes
should be taken into account to ensure an equal
rise and equal going for all steps in each flight,
and where applicable, series of flights.
PITCHED ROOFS
C20 Pitched roof structures shall support
and transfer loads to the supporting
structure without excessive deflection,
and resist the passage of rain and
snow to the inside of the building
New pitched roofs should be designed and
constructed in accordance with NHBC Standards
Chapter 7.2 'Pitched roofs'.
The condition of existing pitched roofs should be
assessed as part of the survey(s), and remedial
work carried out as necessary to provide
satisfactory in-service performance for the
design life of the building.
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 Conversions and Renovations
PITCHED ROOFS
CO (continued)
Certain roofs e.g. on listed buildings or in
conservation areas, may require specialist advice
and appropriate skills
Items to be taken into account include:
(a) existing structure
It should not be assumed that roof members that are
performing satisfactorily at the time ot the survey
would not cause a problem at a future date.
Changes in structure and loading should be taken
into account. The exissing strucsure should be
strengthened where replacement roof coverings
are heavier than the existing.
Intermediate support should be provided to
reduce spans where members would otherwise be
over-stressed.
Improved strutting to purlinu should be provided
where the struts are
• at inadequate centres
• not propped trom Ioadbearing structure
• not braced to prevent movement.
Additional support to water tanks should be provided
where the existing support is inadequate
Bracing to trussed rafter roofs should be upgraded
in accordance with current requirements.
Holding down/restraint strapping should be provided
to meet current requirements where it is necessary.
Where wood is showing signs of rot or beetle
infestation, remedial work should be carried out in
accordance with Clause C6.
(b) roof coverings
txisting roof coverings should be removed and
replaced unless it can be demonstrated that they
will perform satisfactorily for the design life of
the building.
Recovering of roofs over the existing coverings
will not be permitted unless the system has been
specifically assessed for this purpose in accordance
with Technical Requirement R3.
Where NHBC agrees to an existing roof covering
being retained, second hand (re-claimed) slates and
tiles may be required for matching. These should only
be used if they are accepted by NHBC, in accordance
with Technical Requirement R3.
Paeeia ot 3i
Eftvcsive Jvly 2ttt
(c) underlay
Where the roof ix co have the exitcing covering
removed and replaced, a new underlay should be
provided in accordance with NHBC Standards
Chapter 7.2 'Pitched roofs'. Adequate ventilation
vhould be provided.
(d) flashings and weatherings
Flaxhingv and weatheringv should normally be
formed in lead. Guidance is given in "Lead sheet in
Building" and other material published by the Lead
Development Association.
Cement fillets will not normally be accepted ax
flashings or weatherings.
FLAT ROOFS AND BALCONIES
C21 Flat roof and balcony structures
shall support and transfer loads
to the supporting structure
without excessive deflection and
resist the passage of rain and
snow to the inside of the building
New flat roofs and balconies should be designed
and constructed in accordance with NHBC Standards
Chapter 7.t 'Flat roofs and balconies'.
The condition of exivting flat roofs and balconies
should be assessed as part of the survey(s), and
remedial work carried out as necessary to provide
satisfactory in-service performance for the design
life of the building.
The use of timber in balconies should be limited
to secondary elements, which in turn are supported
by materials other than timber. Further guidance iv
given in NHBC Standards Chapter 7.1 'Flat roofs
and balconies'.
Certain roofs and balconies e.g. on listed buildings
or in conservation areax may require specialist advice
and appropriate skills
Items to be taken into account include:
(a) existing structure
It should not be axsumed that flat roofs or
balconies that are performing satisfactorily at the
time of the survey would not cause a problem at
a future date.
Changes in structure and loading, particularly
replacement roof or balcony coverings, vhould be
taken into account
NH5C Stavdardv for covversiovs and tevovatiovv
April 2ttS editiov
 Conversions and Renovations
The existing structure should be strengthened where
replacement roof or balcony coverings are heavier
than the existing.
Existing reinforced concrete or steel flat roof or
balcony structures should be in satisfactory condition.
Structural alterations should only be carried Out Ofl
the advice of an Engineer.
Intermediate support should be provided to reduce
spans on timber roofs where members would
otherwise be overstressed or are excessively deflected.
Upgrading of strutting may be required.
Holding down/restraint strapping should be provided
to meet current requirements where it is necessary.
Ventilation to cold deck construction should be
provided in accordance with NHBC Standards Chapter
7.1 Flat roofs and balconies' (cold deck construction
is not acceptable in Scotland).
(b) weatherproofing
Correct detailing of the various interfaces,
particularly those beneath balcony door openings,
will be required to prevent water entering the
building. Further guidance is given in NHBC
Standards Chapter 7.1 'Flat roofs and balconies'.
Existing roof coverings should be removed and
replaced unless it can be demonstrated that they
will perform satisfactorily for the design life of
the building.
Recovering of roofs and balconies over the existing
waterproofing is not generally permitted unless the
system has been assessed in accordance with
Technical Requirement R3.
Flat roofs and balconies should have post
construction minimum falls of 1:80, unless the roof
covering and construction has been independently
assessed to confirm it is acceptable at zero falls.
ROOF DRAINAGE
C22 Roof drainage shall adequately carry
rainwater to a suitable outfall
New rainwater drainage systems should be
installed in accordance with NHBC Standards
Chapter 7.1 'Flat roofs and balconies' or Chapter 7.2
'Pitched roofs'.
The condition of the existing roof drainage, including
parapet and other hidden gutters should be assessed
as part of the survey(s), and remedial work carried
out as necessary to provide satisfactory in-service
performance for the design life of the building.
NHBC Sturdards for Conversions and Renovations
Aprii 2005 edition
Existing lead gutters should be reconstructed
and re-lined where there is inadequate allowance
for movement.
All roofs (excluding small areas less than 6m) should
have adequate rainwater drainage.
Where rainwater from new roof areas is to be
connected to an existing system, the capacity of the
gutters, downpipes and the suitability of the outfall
should be established, and upgraded where necessary.
Where the roof area has an upstand on all sides,
adequate drainage and an overflow outlet should
be provided, regardless of the size of the roof.
The size of the overflow outlet should not be less
than the size of the rainwater outlet (or outlets if
there are several).
Existing rainwater downpipes located internally
should normally be replaced and relocated externally.
FRAMED BUILDINGS -
STRUCTU RE
C23 The loadbearing structure of
framed buildings shall transfer
loads to the foundations safely
and without excessive movement
Examples of framed buildings include:
• steel frame
• reinforced concrete frame
• timber frame
• oak frame.
Framed buildings should be:
• assessed in accordance with Technical
Requirements 83 and R5, and
• assessed by an Engineer in accordance with advice
given in:
• CIRIA Report 111
• Institution of Structural Engineers Report
'Appraisal of existing structures', and
• BRE Digest 366.
Where structural alterations are necessary they should
be designed by an Engineer.
Puge 19 of 3t
Eftective: July 2005
 Conversions and Renovations
FRAMED BUILDINGS -
WEATHERPROOFING
C24 The external walls and roofs of framed
buildings shall be suitable for their
exposure and resist the passage of
moisture to the inside of the building
New curtain walling and cladding systems should be
designed and installed in accordance with NHBC
Standards Chapter 6.9 'Curtain walling and cladding'.
New masonry cladding should be in accordance
with NHBC Standards Chapter 6.1 'External masonry
walls' and the Engineer's design.
Existing curtain walling and cladding systems should
be surveyed by a suitably qualified and experienced
specialist surveyor.
The survey report should be made available to NHBC.
Remedial work should be carried Out as necessary to
provide satisfactory in-service performance.
The following should be taken into account:
• existing cladding systems should normally be
removed before the replacement system is installed
• replacement systems should be fixed to
the structure
• existing masonry cladding should be assessed in
accordance with Clauses C12, Ct3 and C14
• roofs should be assessed in accordance with
Clauses C20, C2t and C22.
DOORS, WINDOWS
AND GLAZING
C25 Doors, windows and glazing
shall ensure satisfactory
in-service performance
New doors, windows and glazing should be designed,
specified and installed in accordance with NHBC
Standards Chapter 6.7 'Doors, windows and glazing'.
The condition of existing doors, windows and
glazing should be assessed as part of the survey(s),
and remedial work carried Out as necessary to
provide satisfactory in-service performance.
Excessively warped or twisted doors and windows
should be repaired or replaced.
Doors may require upgrading as fire doors,
which should be carried out in accordance with
an appropriately tested specification.
Door frames may act as integral members of
partition framing; reinstatement/repair should
not reduce structural integrity.
Paqe 20 of 31
Effective July 200s
Items to be taken into account include:
(a) timber doors and windows
Rotten sections should be replaced with durable or
preservative treated timber. A proprietary repair
system used in accordance with the manufacturer's
recommendations may be an acceptable alternative.
(b) glazing
Insulating glass units should normally be replaced
in accordance with NHBC Standards Chapter 6.7
'Doors, windows and glazing'.
Glazing in critical locations should either:
• break safely, or
• be robust or in small panes, or
• be permanently protected by suitable guarding
Low level openings may require guarding.
Special provisions may be necessary if they are
also used for means of escape.
(c) security
Ironmongery to main and secondary access doors
and to windows should be provided in accordance
with NHBC Standards Chapter 6.7 'Doors, windows
and glazing'.
JOIN ERY
C26 Joinery shall provide satisfactory
in-service performance
New joinery should be fitted in accordance
with NHBC Standards Chapter 8.4 'Finishings
and fitments'.
The condition of existing joinery should be assessed
as part of the survey(s), and remedial work carried
out as necessary to provide satisfactory in-service
performance for the design life of the building.
The following should be taken into account:
• where the wood is sound, existing picture rails,
dado rails, skirtings and architraves may be
retained although refixing may be required
• damaged joinery should be repaired or replaced
• reinstatement of existing work should include
appropriate treatment where necessary in
accordance with Clause C6.
NHBC Standards for Conversions and 5enovations
Apr/ 2005 edition
 Conversions and Renovations
FLOOR, WALL AND CEILING
FINISHES
C27 Workmanship shall provide
a satisfactory finish
New floor, wall and ceiling finishes should be
applied in accordance with NHBC Standards
Chapters 8.2 'Wall and ceiling finishes' and
8.3 'Floor finishes'
The condition of existing floor, wall and ceiling
finishes should be assessed as part of the survey(s),
and remedial work carried out as necessary to provide
satisfactory in-service performance for the design life
of the building.
The moisture content of external walls, floors and
ceilings should be taken into account where separate
internal frames and linings are proposed.
Items to be taken into account include:
(a) linings
Linings and separating frames, with or without a
vapour control layer, should only be applied to a dry
and stable background.
Adhesive dabs should not be used for fixing to
existing solid walls.
(b) existing wall and ceiling finishes
Where existing backgrounds are to be retained they
should be sound and provide an adequate backing
for the proposed finish.
Plaster that is not keyed should be replaced or
patched where practicable.
SERVICES—WATER
C28 Every home shall have an adequate
hot and cold water supply
New hot and cold water services should be installed
in accordance with NHBC Standards Chapter 8.t
'Internal services'.
Existing hot and cold water services should normally
be replaced.
The size and condition of the existing supply should
be assessed as part of the survey(s), and upgraded
as necessary to provide satisfactory in-service
performance for the design life of the building.
NHBC stardards for Conversions nnd tenovations
Aprii 200s edition
SERVICES — ELECTRICAL
C29 Every home shall have an adequate
and safe electrical installation
New electrical services should be installed in
accordance with NHBC Standards Chapter 8.1
'Internal services'.
Existing electrical installations should normally be
replaced unless it can be demonstrated that they are
in a safe working condition and have a reasonable
life expectancy.
All electrical installations should comply with
BS 7671 formerly the Institution of Electrical
Engineers (lEE) Wiring Regulations current at the
time of the conversion or renovation.
Socket outlets which might reasonably be used to
supply power to external appliances should be
protected by a residual current device (RCD).
To meet with this regulation, all power circuits
supplying sockets should be protected by a residual
current device to BS 4293.
Lighting circuits and those supplying power to smoke
detectors should not be protected by a residual
current device.
The provision of socket outlets, lighting and
television reception should be in accordance with
NHBC Standards Chapter 8.1 'Internal services'.
SERVICES — GAS
C30 Where provided, gas services
shall be in accordance with
current standards and codes
New gas services should be installed in accordance
with NHBC Standards Chapter 8.1 'Internal services'.
All gas services should comply with the Gas Safety
(Installation and use) Regulations current at the time
of the conversion or renovation.
Existing gas services should normally be replaced.
SERVICES - SPACE HEATING
C31 Where provided, space heating
shall be in accordance with building
regulations. standards and codes
New systems should be installed in accordance with
NHBC Standards Chapter 8.1 'Internal services'.
Existing heating systems should normally be replaced
unless it can be demonstrated that they comply with
NHBC Standards Chapter 8.1 'Internal services' and
are in a safe working condition with a reasonable
life expectancy.
Page 21 of 31
Etfective: tuly 2005
 Conversions and Renovations
SERVICES - VENTILATION
(32 Homes shall be adequately ventilated
All existing habitable rooms, kitchens and bathrooms
within a home, and common parts in flats, should be
provided with ventilation, which substantially meets
with building regulations applicable to new build
New extract fan systems should be installed in
accordance with NHBC Standards Chapter 8.1
'Internal services'.
SERVICES — ABOVE
GROUND DRAINAGE
C33 Above ground drainage
systems shall ensure satisfactory
in-service performance
New above ground soil and waste systems should
be installed in accordance with NHBC Standards
Chapter 8.1 'Internal services'.
The condition of the existing soil and waste
system should be assessed and tested as part of
the survey(s), and remedial work carried out as
necessary to provide satisfactory in-service
performance for the design life of the building.
Existing systems to be retained or extended should
substantially meet with current requirements.
PAINTING AND DECORATING
C34 Paint and decorative systems shall
provide an acceptable finish
New and existing work should be thoroughly
cleaned down, prepared and a new finish applied
in accordance with NHBC Standards Chapter 8.5
'Painting and decorating'
Where necessary timber doors and windows
should be stripped before redecoration.
Metal doors and windows should be stripped
before redecoration.
Decoration should allow walls to 'breathe' so that
vapour pressure does not build up behind the surface
EXTERNAL WORKS - ACCESS
(35 Adequate access shall be
provided to and around the home
Access, including private roads, shared private drives,
private drives, car parking areas and paths, should
normally be provided in accordance with NHBC
Standards Chapter 9 2 'Drives, paths and landscaping'.
Page 22 of 31
EffecOve July 2005
The condition of the existing access should be
assessed as part of the survey(s), and remedial
work carried out as necessary to provide
satisfactory in-service performance for the
design life of the building.
EXTERNAL WORKS - GARAGES
AND OUTBUILDINGS
C36 Garages and converted
outbuildings shall be suitable
for their intended purposes
New garages should be designed and
constructed in accordance with NHBC Standards
Chapter 9.1 'Garages'.
The condition of existing garages and outbuildings
should be assessed as part of the survey(s),
and remedial work carried out as necessary to
provide satisfactory in-service performance for their
intended purpose for the design life of the building.
Outbuildings converted into garages should
meet the requirements of NHBC Standards Chapter
9.1 'Garages'.
In accordance with requirements for new garages,
walls to converted garages do not normally need
to be totally weather resistant and floors do not
normally require a damp proof membrane.
EXTERNAL WORKS -
FREESTANDING WALLS AND
RETAINING STRUCTURES
(37 Freestanding walls and retaining
structures shall be adequate for
their intended purpose
New freestanding walls and retaining structures
should be designed and constructed in accordance
with NHBC Standards Chapter 9.2 'Drives, paths
and landscaping'.
The condition of existing freestanding walls and
retaining structures should be assessed as part of
the survey(s), and remedial work carried out as
necessary to provide satisfactory in-service
performance for the design life of the building.
The following should be taken into account:
• the stability of the wall or structure, and
proposed loading
• assessment of damage or deterioration
• that the wall or structure has all the necessary
cappings, copings and dpcs
• that the copings shed water clear of the wall.
NHBC Standards for Conversions and Renovations
April 2005 ed0ion
 Conversions and Renovations

EXTERNAL WORKS - PROVISION OF INFORMATION

GARDEN AREAS (40 Designs and specifications
(up to 20m from the habitable parts of the home) shall be produced in a clearly
understandable format and
C38 Garden areas shall be stable and include all relevant information
adequately prepared for cultivation All relevant information relating to the conversion
Work should be carried out in accordance with or renovation should be stated clearly and
NHBC Standards Chapter 9.2 'Drives, paths unambiguously, and be readily available.
and landscaping'.
C41 All relevant information 5hall be
The following should be taken into account: distributed to appropriate personnel
• construction rubbish and debris should be The design and specification should be made
removed from garden and other areas around
available to all appropriate personnel including site
the home supervisors and relevant specialists, sub contractors
• old foundations, concrete bases and similar and/or suppliers.
obstructions occurring within 300mm of the
finished ground surface should be removed
• any ground disturbed during the conversion or
renovation works should be re-graded to conform
to the general shape of the adjacent ground
• subsoil should not be placed over topsoil and any
topsoil disturbed should be reinstated
• garden areas should be provided with topsoil to a
thickness of not less than 1 00mm
• the topsoil should not contain contaminants
which are likely to present a hazard to users of
the garden
• waterlogging of the ground around the home,
up to a maximum 3.Om from the habitable
parts, should be prevented by drainage or other
suitable means.

EXTERNAL WORKS -
LANDSCAPING
(39 Possible future damage to the home
caused by planting shall be minimised
Works should be carried out in accordance
with NHBC Standards Chapter 9.2 'Drives, paths
and landscaping'.
Where trees or shrubs have been removed, are
to be retained or are to be planted by the builder,
precautions should be taken to reduce the risk of
future damage to homes and services.
Further guidance is given in NHBC Standards
Chapter 4.2 'Building near trees'.

NHBC standards for Conoersions and Senovations Page 23 of 31

Aprii 2005 ediSon Effective Juiy 2055
APPENDIX A
Conversions and Renovations

Useful contacts
Association of British Insurers (ABI)
wwwabi.org.uk

British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing Association (BWPDA)

www.bwpda.co.uk

British Pest Control Association (BPCA)

www.bpca.org.uk

Building Research Establishment (BRE)

www.bre.co.uk

Centre for Window and Cladding Technology (CWCT)

www.cwct.org.uk

Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA)

www.ciria.org

English Heritage
www. english-heritage.orguk

Environment Agency
www.environment-agencygov.uk

Guarantee Protection Insurance Ltd (GPIC)

www.gptprotectionco.uk

Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC)

www.ihbc.org.uk

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)

wwv.rics.org

The Institution of Structural Engineers

www.lstructE.org.uk

Timber Research and Development Association (TRADA)

www.trada.co.uk

Page 24 of 31 NHBC Standards for Converdons and Renovations

Effective: July 2005 April 2005 edition
 APPENDIX A
Conversions and Renovations

Useful publications
BRE 080 6 Outline guide to assessment of traditional housing for rehabilitation
BRE Digest 366 Structural appraisal of existing buildings for change of use
ISE Report Appraisal of tsisting Structures
BRE Repors 167 Assessing traditional housing for rehabilitation
BRE Report 168 Surveyors checklist for rehabilitation of traditional housisg
BRE Oigest 251 Assessment of damage in low-rise buildings
BRt Oigest 343 Simple measuring and monitoring of movement in low-rise buildings - Part 1
RRt Oigest 344 Simple measuring and monitoring of movement in low-rise buildings - Part 2
BRt Digest 361 Why do buildings crack?
BRE Subsidence damage to domestic buildings

BRt Report 4S3 Recognising wood rot and insect damage in buildings
BRE DAS 1 D3 Wood floors reducing risk of recurrent dry rot
BRE DAS 74 Suspended timber ground floors : repairing rotted joists
BRE Special 1 Concrete in aggressive ground - Parts 1 to 4
Digest

BRE Digest 444 Parts 1, 2 & 3 - Corrosion of steel in concrete

BRE Digest 352 underpinning

BRE Report 447 Brownfield sites - ground related risks for buildings
DETR Asbestos and man made mineral fibres in buildings - practical guidance
BRE OBO 3 Damp proofing existing basements
851 85 tN 752-5 Drain and sewer systems outside buildings rehabilitation
RRE ORO 17 Repairing and replacing ground floors
BRE DAS 73 Suspended timber ground floor : remedying dampness due to inadeguate ventilation
BRE Report 466 understanding Dampness - effects, causes, diagnosis and remedies
BRE Digest 245 Rising damp in walls diagnosis and treatment
BRt Report 117 Rain penetration through masonry walls diagnosis and remedial measures
RRt DAS 71 External masonry walls repointing - specification
BRE DAS 72 External masonry walls repointing
BRt Report 466 understanding dampness - effects, causes, diagnosis and remedies
BRE Digest 461 Corrosion of metal components in walls
BRt DAS 1 D7 Cavity parapets installation of copings, dpc's, trays and flanhings
RRE Reports BRt building elements
RRE ORG 33 Assessing moisture in building materials sources of moisture
BRE 080 2 Surveying masonry chimneys for repair or rebuilding
RRE 080 4 Repairing or rebuilding masonry chimneys
BRt CR0 1 Repairing or replacing lintels
CIRIA Publication C579 Retention of masonry façades - best practice guide
BRE 080 2D Removing infernal loadbearing walls in older property
RRE ORO 22 Parts 1 & 2 - Improving sound insulation
RRECSU GPO 296 Refurbishment site guidance for solid walled houses - roofs
BRtCSU GPO 297 Refurbishment site guidance for solid walled houses - roofs
RRE ORG 14 Re-covering pitched roofs

NHBc Standards far cnnvnrninnn and Renavatinns Papa 25 at at

April 2005 editian tffectiae: July 2005
APPENDIX B
Conversions and Renovations
SURVEY(S) OF
EXISTING BUILDINGS
The survey(s) should be carried out in
accordance with Clause Cl. The items listed
in this Appendix should be considered and
included in the survey(s) as appropriate.
Causes of defects and damage should be
accurately identified.
(a) previous usage
The survey(s) should establish to what extent the land
and buildings included in the conversion or renovation
project have been adversely affected by the former
use and occupancy.
Any residual contamination caused by the previous
use, e.g. agriculture/industry, should be established by
the survey(s).
(b) contaminants
The survey(s) should identify contaminants,
including radioactive, other toxic, explosive or
asphyxiant gases.
Where the ground covered by the building is
within 250m of landfill, or where there is
reason to suspect that there may be gaseous
contamination of the ground, or where the
building will be within the likely sphere of
influence of a landfill where gas production
is possible, further investigation should
be made to establish what protective
measures may be necessary
Further guidance may be found in NHBC
Standards Chapter 4.1 'Land quality — managing
ground conditions'.
(c) wood rot and beetle infestation
The survey(s) should be appropriate for the building,
taking account of the likelihood of rot and pest
infestation. The survey)s) should not be confined
to easily inspected areas, or to areas where rot or
infestation are obvious.
The source, cause and extent of current beetle
infestation or wood rot should be identified.
The BRE publication "Recognising wood rot and
insect damage in buildings" gives guidance
(d) vermin and pest infestation
Points of entry for vermin and pest should
be identified.
rape ue ot 3r
Effective: Jaly 2005
(e) foundations
Items to be taken into account include:
• ground conditions/type of soil/varying
ground levels
• trees - mature height and root growth
• level of water table, which may have altered
since construction
• existing water courses
• level and type of foundations
• structural defects e.g. cracking, signs of movement,
deterioration of concrete etc
• condition of foundations where drains/services pass
through or beneath
• evidence of sulfate attack.
Where appropriate, the effect on foundations of
proposed alterations or extensions to the building
should be accounted for in the survey(s).
Satisfactory past performance of foundations may,
at NHBC's discretion, be accepted as demonstrating
adequacy provided alterations would not adversely
affect the foundations.
(f) basements
Items to be taken into account include:
• future use
• structure ability of the structure to take any
proposed loading condition of the structural
floor above
• dampness: damage to the existing structure
caused by dampness (i.e. condensation and/or
moisture penetration)
• tanking. feasibility of installing new tanking
where required
• ventilation feasibility of installing ventilation
• drainage and other services.
Satisfactory past performance may, at NHBC's
discretion, be accepted as indicating adequacy
provided alterations would not adversely affect
the basement.
NHSC ssavdards tsr Csvuvrsisvs avd eensvarjsrs
April 2005 edison

Conversions and Renovations
(g) below ground foul and surface water drainage
Existing drainage should normally be replaced.
Items to be taken into account when assessing
existing drainage include:
• the results of the CCIV survey
• adequacy of existing system (capacity related to
proposed use and number of people who will use
the building)
• evidence of leakage
• evidence of surcharging or blockage such as
soiled benching
• suitable outfall
• evidence that the flow is self-cleansing
• condition of pipework, manholes and
inspection chambers
• location of manholes and inspection chambers
• adequate access for cleaning
• sealing of redundant drainage
• proposals for dealing with existing cesspools and
septic tanks.
(h) ground floors
Effects of proposed alterations on existing floors, and
related ground levels should be taken into account.
Additional items to be taken into account include:
TIMBER FLOORS
• joist size, span and condition
• bearings to Joists
• sleeper walls
• dpcs provided beneath wall plates
• excessive drilling and notching of joists
• condition of related dpm, dpcs (bridged, damaged,
not adequately linked)
• effective ventilation of sub-floor void
• sloping or sagging floors, gaps below skirting
• any existing insulation.
NHBc Standards tor Conversions and Renovations
April 2005 edition
APPENDIX B
T
CONCRETE FLOORS
• type and condition of floor
• gaps below skirting which may indicate settlement
of fill, or subsidence
• bowing, cracking of screed
• cracked or sloping slab which may indicate heave
• evidence of sulfate attack
• effective damp proof membrane adequate
linking with dpcs
• effective ventilation of sub floor void.
(i) walls
The type of wall construction should be identified,
e.g. masonry with cavity, solid masonry, masonry
with rubble fill, timber frame, external leaf fair face
brick, rendering or cladding, regional (eq. stone
or cob), concrete, steel or cast iron frame, or
proprietary system.
The structural condition should be identified
including suitability for alteration.
Items to be taken into account include:
CRACKING
The cause of cracking should be identified
together with the likely effect on stability; e.g. fine
cracks (1.5mm max) may not require re-pointing or
masonry repair.
Cracking should be monitored where continuing
movement that could adversely affect the structure
is suspected.
More serious cracks can be caused by:
• sulfate attack (expansion of jointing mortar)
• wall tie corrosion (cracking of mortar beds)
• roof spread (walls pushed out of plumb)
• outer leaf pushed outwards, rotation of sills, heads
etc. (timber frame ties unsuitable or wrongly fixed)
• subsidence, ground movement (cracks widening
and extending to outer edge of walls).
RENDERING
• many fine cracks (shrinkage or over-strong mix)
• detached from substrate (shrinkage, or effect
of sulfate reaction)
• render should not bridge the dpc.
Weathering details should be checked e.g. parapet
copings, sills, eaves, bottom edge of rendering.
Paqe 27 of 31
Effec5oe July 2005
 APPENDIX B
Conversions and Renovations
SURVEY(S) OF
EXISTING BUILDINGS
LATERAL RESTRAINT
• walls that provide end restraint or intermediate
buttressing to external walls should be effectively
bonded or tied to the relevant external wall
• floor and roof timbers should have effective
bearing on supporting walls; lateral restraint
straps may be required. Effective anchorage
may be required.
STABILITY OF CAVITY WALLS
The survey(s) should establish whether there is
corrosion of wall ties and recommend appropriate
remedial action.
CURTAIN WALLING AND CLADDING
• condition of existing system including glazing units,
gaskets and seals
• damaged or detached cladding panels
• detached or missing insulation
• damaged or defective fixings
• damaged felt or breather membrane.
(j) support of openings
Existing lirtels should be examined to establish their
structural stability, taking account of possible altered
loadings caused by the conversion or renovation of
the building.
(k) external walls — rain penetration
and dampness
Items to be taken into account include:
• evidence of rain penetration
• evidence of rising damp e.g. lack of, discontinuous,
or defective dpc, or bridged dpc, cavity trays,
vertical dpcs
• evidence of internal condensation (staining)
• blocked rainwater goods.
It should not be assumed that solid walls
that are dry on the inner face at the time of
survey(s), would remain so during adverse
weather conditions.
(i) external walls — exposure rating
The survey(s) should establish the exposure rating
of the building. Buildings that were not previously
dwellings will require particular attention, as the
exclusion of dampness into the building may not
have been critical in the former use.
Page 28 of 3i
Effective: July 2005
(m) internal partitions
The survey(s) should confirm that existing internal
partitions have adequate strength for their purpose.
The effect of alterations on existing partitions should
be ascertained.
(n) separating walls and floors
The survey(s) should identify the adequacy of
existing separating walls and floors, including their
resistance to:
• spread of fire and smoke (separating walls in
some older houses may not continue into the
roof space)
• sound.
The above should also be established for walls and
floors which will act as separating elements in the
converted building.
(o) chimneys, flues, fireplaces and hearths
Items to be taken into account include:
• structural stability, including whether rebuilding
is necessary
• condition of mortar, pointing, brickwork,
rendering, masonry
• condition of flashings and soakers, capping,
flaunching or chimney pots
• suitability of flues for proposed appliances
• condition of linings / parging to flues
• proximity of combustible materials to
flues/flue pipes
• condition of existing fireplaces, hearths.
(p) timber upper floors
Items to be taken into account include:
• joist size, span and condition
• bearings to joists where bedded in solid brickwork,
or joist hangers
• excessive drilling and notching of joists
• sloping or sagging floors, gaps below skirting
• effect of proposed alterations.
NHBC Standards for Conversions and Renovations
Aprii 2005 edition

Conversions and Renovations
(q) concrete upper floors
Items to be taken into account include:
• type and condition of floor
• where bearing on walls, condition of supporting
area of wall
• condition of supporting beams, and supporting
area of wall
• suitability of floor to take new loadings
• condition of screod.
(r) staircases
Items to be taken into account include:
• structural stability eg. condition of timber
generally, escessive movement/sloping of treads,
risers, landings; reliability of handrails/balusters
• consistency of rise and going, pitch and headroom
• safety aspects where staircase is lit by glazing
• whether the stairs are safe to use and
unobstructed by opening of doors
• ssitability for possible use an means of escape in
case of fire.
(s) pitched roofs
STRUCTURE
Items to be taken into account include:
• size, span and condition of structural members
• evidence of spread
• undulations in ridge line, or in slating/tiling
• adequate triangulation, purlin support
• proper support of water tanks and possibility
of estra loading
• joints and connections between members,
including metal fasteners (signs of corrosion(
• bracing, lateral restraint
• bearing on supporting structure
• location, dimensions and structural condition of
access to loft space
• condition of narking boards.
NHBC standards tsr cnnversinns and Rvnssatinns
April 2005 editinn
APPENDIX B
WEATHERPROOFING/INSULATION
Roof coverings will normally be removed and replaced.
Where it is proposed to retain any esinting pitched
roof coverings, the survey(s( should accurately
establish the current condition and anticipated
durability of the coverings e.g. damaged,
deteriorated, missing, broken or slipped units.
Additional items to be taken into account include
the condition and adequacy of esinting:
• flashings
• soffits, fascias and bargeboards etc.
• sarking felt etc
• rainwater disposal goods, gutters and
downpipes etc
• insulation
• ventilation.
(t) flat roofs, balconies
Roof coverings will normally be removed and replaced.
Additional items to be taken into account include:
• adequacy of joist bearings, lateral restraint,
condition of joists, size and span of joists
• condition of reinforced concrete
• condition/adequacy of insulation within
roof system
• condition of guarding, and of its fisingn
• adequacy of falls, signs of ponding
• condition of flanhings, eaves details
• condition of rainwater disposal.
(u) doors, windows, external joinery
and metalwork
Items to be taken into account include:
• estent of damage or deterioration to
aluminium windows
• estent of corrosion to metal windows — whether
restoration is feasible
• estent of rot in timber windows, doors including
frames, sills, thresholds
• effectiveness of throatings, weather bars and
other weatherings
• the condition of esisting ironmongery
• security — esisting ironmongery may
be inappropriate
• safety — additional guarding to openings may
be reqsired.
Page 29 stat
Ettective. mi9 2005
APPENDIX B
Conversions and Renovations

ELECTRICAL
SURVEY(S) OF
A new electrical service will be required unless
EXISTING BUILDINGS it can be shown that the existing service is in a
safe condition and will have a reasonable
(v) glazing life expectancy.
Existing insulating glass units should normally Items to be taken into account include.
be replaced.
• the age of the existing installation
Items to be taken into account include:
• whether the existing installation is suitable
• security — existing glazing systems may for extending.
be inappropriate
• safety — where there is a risk of accidental breakage. GAS
The gas service should be replaced unless it
(w) internal joinery can be shown that the existing service is in
a safe condition and will have a reasonable
Items to be taken into account include
life expectancy.
• condition of joinery
Items to be taken into account include:
• condition of ironmongery
• condition/suitability of flues for gas installation
• condition of internal partitions.
• gas pipes in unventilated voids
(x) finishes • corrosion of steel pipes
Items to be taken into account include • whether the existing installation is suitable
• soundness of plaster, plasterboard on walls and for extending
ceilings etc where these are to be retained
SPACE HEATING
• condition of decorative work e.g. friezes, cornices
The condition and capacity of any existing means
and ceiling roses
of space heating should be established.
• feasibility of providing matching work as required.
ABOVE GROUND DRAINAGE SYSTEMS
(y) services Where existing systems are to be retained and/or
extended the new system should substantially meet
WATER with current requirements.
Where existing hot and cold water services are to be
retained their current condition should be established.
(z) Painting and decorating
Items to be taker into account include Items to be taken into account include
• drinking water • the condition of existing painting and decoration
• cold water storage • whether existing painting, when cleaned down can
provide a stable substrate for new work to enable
• hot water storage
satisfactory and durable finish
• water heating
• where necessary, timber doors and windows
• distribution — lead pipework should be removed should be stripped before redecoration
and replaced
• metal doors and windows should be stripped
• protection against frost before redecoration
• controls • any special coatings required e.g breathable paints.

Page 30 of 31 NHBC Standards for Conversions and Renovations

Effective July 2005 Apni 2005 edition
 APPENDIX B
Conversions and Renovations U
(aa) access
Items to be taken into account include:
• condition of existing paths and drives
• levels of paths etc and ground adjacent to
the buildings.

(ab) garages and outbuildings

The survey(s) should identify the condition of
buildings which will be used for garages, workshops
or storage, etc and establish their suitability for
that use.

(ac) freestanding walls and retaining structures

Items to be taker into account include:
• the stability and condition of freestanding and
retaining structures
• the effect of any proposed changes in loading
• the effect of any adjacent excavations or changes
in ground levels etc
• that all weatherproofing details necessary to ensure
durability are present and in satisfactory condition

(ad) garden areas and landscaping

Items to be taken into account include:
• the effect of any changes in levels
• any waterlogging within 3.Om of the habitable
parts of the building
• whether proposed works increase the risk of
such waterlogging
• the effect of any trees or shrubs that have been,
or will be, removed.

NHBC Standards for Conversions and RenovaSons Page 31 ot 31

Apnl 2005 edition Effective tuly 2005
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