I cant seem to find any information on if the conversion of a property to holiday letting overrides the usual rule the building regs dont have to be applied retrospectively.
My example in mind, an old property with tall windows that reach nearly to floor level, that if built now, or a pane replaced, would have to be safety glass. As a residential property it wouldn't be nesecary to replace the standard glass but does changing use put a differant complexion on things. ie, take the risk with your own family but you cant put paying guests at unnecessary risk as part of a commercial enterprise?
Give building contol a call. They'll need to sign it off anyway.
Edit: but if you're concerned why would you put your family at risk?
its not my property.
i was hoping for some expert advice for free!
It's still a building control sign off. They are the people whoever need to speak too. They don't bite.
Unless you're in certain local authority areas, there is no 'change of use' under planning policy to go from full resi to holiday let. So unless you've had to submit a planning app for change of use then I don't think there'll be a change of use under building regs either, as it won't be classed as a commercial property.
However it sounds like it would be sensible anyway to replace the glazing if it's weak or dangerous.
Wouldn't be classed as a change of use under building regs. so normal domestic regulations/standards that were in force at the time the dwelling was built/created apply only. Even for repair/replacement, general principle is "as long as it's no worse than it was before".
Only caveat to the above would be if the building contained a greater or lesser number of dwellings than it did previously, i.e. if you've knocked 2 into 1, or subdivided the existing to form 2 or more units. It would then require a building regs. application
May be subject to change of use for planning though, and could be separate legislation for lettings that apply. Some letting agencies apply their own standards too.
Look about three quarters of the way down the list (might not be your local authority but they will all be the same)
Your post is a little confusing and this is basic advice, but the conversion of a residential dwelling to a commercial holiday let would need to fully satisfy Building Control. Means of escape, disabled access , fire regulations etc. You are correct any glass located below 800mm from FFL should be toughened refer to Part N of the Building Regulations. A typical detail is to retain the glass insitu and provide a handrail with balustrades internally, usually located within the window reveal.