Upgrading existing flats so they comply with building regulations

[Rambler2025]

Hi

I realise this is "how longs a piece of string", but any help is most appreciated...

A house was converted to 2 flats in the 1960s, so doesn't comply with building control standards. I’m thinking about upgrading it so the flats do comply.

Noise test / Part E: if I fit resilient bars, rockwool + 2 layers of plasterboard, would you guess it will pass the noise test? Longest span is about 4m, so would the joists be OK? I guess they are “normal size” 2*8.

Can I remove the ceiling below, fit the rockwool + plasterboard from underneath and maybe add some ‘impact’ insulation on the floor above? I don’t have to remove any stud walls, bathroom etc upstairs?

Thermal insulation: Both flats are an E rating EPC and I want to achieve a 'C'. Do you think it will achieve a 'C' simply by complying with building regs / SAP requirements? Maybe I’m a bit hopeful? What sort of work do you think I need to do? Loft insulation…lining walls with plasterboard?...underfloor insulation?...cavity…solar…how far would I have to go? Its got storage heaters and no gas

If an electrician carries out a domestic electrical installation condition report, I might have to change the consumer unit, fit isolation switches etc. But will it then comply with building regs - that’s it?

I’m just thinking about the cost / benefits. If I don’t comply with building regs, I’d have to do a lot of the work anyway (upgrade to achieve an EPC ‘C’ rating, electrical inspection). It will be a lot of hassle to comply with building regs, but it seems better value in the end. Unless it’s just completely ridiculous (i.e. strip back to 4 walls)

Much obliged

 

[Murdochcat]

Are you thinking of selling or renting?

 

[Rambler2025]

I would rent them, but the idea is to upgrade to full modern standards of a flat conversion, so they could be sold separately on standard mortgages. Its possible to rent the house 'as is' (arranged as 2 flats) but I'd have to do a lot of work anyway (like the EPC and elec test cert). By the time Ive done all that, the cost of a full upgrade may not be that much