St Annes Surveyor Case Study: Semi-Detached Three-Story Townhouse in St Annes – Window Safety Concerns
Property Overview
The subject property is a semi-detached, three-story townhouse located in the picturesque town of St Annes. The residence boasts modern amenities, ample living space, and a blend of contemporary and traditional architectural elements. However, during the recent inspection, a significant safety issue was identified regarding the windows throughout the property.
Identified Issue: Lack of Window Safety Restrictors
Upon thorough examination of the property during an RICS Level 2 Home Buyer survey, it was observed that the windows across all three stories lack safety restrictors. This deficiency presents a notable risk, particularly in a multi-story dwelling, as it increases the potential for accidents, especially in homes with young children or vulnerable adults. These were clearly documented in a Level 2 report.
Implications of the Issue
1. Safety Hazards: Without restrictors, windows can open fully, posing a severe risk of falls. This is particularly critical for windows situated above the ground floor, where a fall could result in serious injury or even fatality.
2. Compliance Concerns: Current building regulations and safety standards in the UK emphasize the importance of window restrictors, especially in residential properties that accommodate families. The absence of these restrictors may place the property in non-compliance with safety norms, potentially affecting its insurability and saleability.
3. Potential Remedial Costs: Retrofitting window restrictors can incur additional costs. Although the expense is generally not prohibitive, it is an important consideration for prospective buyers, both in terms of immediate outlay and potential disruption during installation.
Recommendations
Given the identified issue, it is imperative to address the lack of window restrictors promptly. The following steps are recommended:
1. Installation of Window Restrictors: Engage a FENSA-qualified contractor to fit compliant window restrictors on all relevant windows. This will mitigate the risk of falls and enhance the safety of the property.
2. Certification and Compliance Check: Ensure that the installation is carried out in accordance with the relevant safety standards and obtain certification from the contractor. This will serve as proof of compliance and may be necessary for future inspections or property sales.
3. Regular Maintenance and Inspection: Implement a routine maintenance schedule to check the integrity of the window restrictors. Over time, these mechanisms can wear, and ensuring their continued effectiveness is essential for long-term safety.
Conclusion
While the semi-detached three-story townhouse in St Annes offers numerous desirable features, the lack of window safety restrictors is a significant concern that must be addressed. Prospective buyers are advised to consider the implications of this issue carefully and take appropriate action to rectify it. By doing so, they can ensure the safety of all occupants and maintain the property’s compliance with current safety standards.
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Disclaimer: The information contained in this blog is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal, financial, medical, or other professional advice. No warranty, express or implied, is given as to the accuracy or completeness of the information. Reliance on any information provided is at your own risk.
