Mezzanine floor alterations are sometimes possible after you have had the existing structure installed. There are however key points to note about making mezzanine floor alterations to an existing structure and the alteration will still need to comply with Building Regulations.
Mezzanine floor alteration considerations:
- What is the purpose of the existing mezzanine floor alteration?
- Is the mezzanine floor size increasing due to increased storage requirements?
- Does the mezzanine size need decreasing due to a change of business profile ?
- What if my existing structure was built a few years ago, does it still comply with a change of use?
All the above are very important considerations that need to be made before a mezzanine floor alteration design can be put in place. Although Building Regulations haven’t really changed over the years, for mezzanine floors, it is imperative that any mezzanine floor alterations meet the required safety standards set and comply with all Building Regs. For example, if your existing mezzanine doesn’t have any fire protection and is used as an office space we would advise on a full review of the area to examine the overall layout of any alteration, including fire rating the existing structure, making sure that anyone using the facility can exit the building safely.
At STS we look at exit routes as well as fire protection for the overall situation with the extension.
We sometimes come across structures during our reviews that have not been installed by qualified mezzanine floor engineers and they lack, or have no, design calculations or drawings created before construction has taken place, meaning that these mezzanines have not been passed by Building Regulations. Although these structures may be strong enough to fulfil their purpose they may very well be missing key features that have not been officially approved. These certification levels are vital should an accident occur which could potentially put individuals within the area at risk – as the owner or landlord, you will be held responsible so it is essential that a review is carried out and approved before any alterations can take place.
Are you looking to make alterations to an existing mezzanine? Please get in touch and we will be happy to visit your site to undertake a full review and provide recommendations on how to proceed.