The building regulations in Ireland are continuously being reviewed and updated by the department. They can be found at this address: http://www.environ.ie/en/TGD/.

The building regulations are located in the technical guidance documents and divided into Part A – Part M. Below is an overview of each section.

Part A – Structure. This relates to the structure of the building including sizes of timbers, thickness of masonry walls and the foundations of the building.

Part B – Fire Safety. This section of the building regulations focuses on means of escape in case of a fire and how to prevent internal and external spread of fire.

Part C – Site preparation and Resistance to Moisture. This section of the building regulations focuses on dangerous substances such as radon and landfill gases and the buildings resistance to weather and ground moisture.

Part D – Materials and Workmanship. In this section the fitness of materials is assessed and that the workmanship is up to standard.

Part E – Sound. This section is to limit the transmission of sound from neighbouring properties. It examines the types of walls and floors used in construction and how it can be limited.

Part F – Ventilation. This section relates to natural and mechanical ventilation and also examines condensation in roofs.

Part G – Hygiene. The hygiene aspect of the building regulations covers bathrooms and kitchens in a dwelling.

Part H – Drainage and Waste Water Disposal. This section covers how waste water and surface water is disposed of.

Part J – Heat Producing Appliances. This section provides information on the air supply to these appliances, extract fans and flues.

Part K – Stairways. This section provides information on the construction of steps, the rise, going and pitch and landings that may need to be incorporated into the stairs.

Part L – Conservation of fuel. This section deals with limiting the amount of fuel need to run the dwelling. It lists ways in the building fabric such as insulation and also the building services such as space heating. For more information please visit our blog “How to insulate a dormer roof”.

Part M – Access and Use. The final part of the technical guidance documents deals with making sure that the building is fit for use such as wheelchair access and ensuring there is access to the main habitable rooms at entry level.

When undertaking construction work in your home we recommend obtaining the services of a construction professional.