Staircase to loft conversion in a bungalow.

[conny]

Had 2 contractors out today to look at converting late FIL's loft to 1 bedroom and office/workroom. May possibly build an en-suite on the bedroom at a later date. Both had different views on the staircase design/installation.
One said it had to be fire protected completely, (i.e. basically like a fire-resistant tunnel with fire door at top and bottom). I think this is the correct method.
The other guy said you just need a fire door at the top of the stairs, or a normal door that will have 1/2-hour fire resistance.

I know which one seems the most sensible to me, (even though it means we cannot fit a nice open staircase with ornate spindles), but would like others opinions as to if there are other options. Fire escape through loft window is out of the question as two of the users are disabled, (1 x physical the other Aspergers).

 

[^woody^]

That's the trouble with builders who are not designers. Just let them follow plans.

Fire doors and protected escape route don't apply to a bungalow conversion.

You will require means of escape form a window in rooms on the first floor.

 

[conny]

Thanks Woody. The problem is, the windows will be Velux, not dormer, and one of the users is physically disabled to the extent they could not climb out of a window on to any form of escape ladder.

 

[^woody^]

The regulations are for buildings not individuals. I doubt you'll get a relaxation for MOE windows, as the requirement can be met by forming a dormer, lowering a velux or fitting different style of velux.

 

[noseall]

one of the users is physically disabled to the extent they could not climb out of a window on to any form of escape ladder.

Seems like an odd or unappealing location for a disable bod?

 

[conny]

The, 'disabled bod, is fiercely independent and can climb a flight of stairs, albeit having to put both feet on the same stair as they go up or down.
Future plans are, if they become unable to do the stairs, one of the lower rooms which is currently a 'games room', will become their bedroom and the 'games room' will move upstairs.

 

[noseall]

one of the lower rooms which is currently a 'games room', will become their bedroom and the 'games room' will move upstairs.

Seems more sensible. Lofties are for the young and fit.