Decking/raised patios and associated balustrading Subject No: 15 Subject: Decking/raised patios and associated balustrading Introducing Officer: A R Cross (Poole BC) Date: 15/4/2002 The issues : The construction of raised/elevated decking (particularly of timber) has become very much in vogue mainly due to media coverage. Decking manufacturers have been promoting the use of their products which tend to come in kit form, but there appears to be little or no emphasis regarding compliance with Building Regulations where appropriate. Consequently, there have been instances of unsatisfactory balustrading in particular being erected without approval. Policy Statement : Any elevated decking, patio, balcony or similar area in or around a building which is used in connection with a building should be afforded with guarding to prevent persons falling from that area from a height of; More than 600 mm - dwellings, More than 380mm - other buildings. The Requirements in Approved Documents A and K will apply to the design of the structure and protection respectively. The requirements will apply to such areas in connection with new ,extended or altered buildings. Decking type structures within the site of a building but not used in connection with the building would not normally be within the scope of the Building Regulations. eg: raised decking in a garden remote from a building. In these cases designers are advised to use the Building Regulations as a minimum guide. Each circumstance will need to be considered on its own merits and appropriate judgements made. Policy agreed 16/4/2002

[ Home ]

© 1999, 2002 Dorset Technical Committee. All rights reserved. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this web site is correct, Dorset Technical Committee cannot accept responsibility for any error or omission which may occur. Site Design and Maintenance: East Dorset District Council