Follow the rules over plans

One of the other main problems which has surfaced during the trickling in of applications is the question of adequate plans.

There are two issues here: is the information required by the regulations contained on the plans in sufficient detail; and are the plans the right size?

Getting the right information on the plans is a question offollowing the regulations.

If you have a surveyor, architect or other professional who is doing the drawing for you, it is best to give them a copy of the requirements, either from the regulations or from the material sent to you by the local council, which should give an indication of what is required.

(Yes, I know that many of you have not heard from your council, so phone up or e-mail and ask for the application package).

The person drawing theplans then knows what needsto be indicated, including fire-fighting equipment, means of escape and the other matters I have mentioned in this column before.

This may be a costly exercise, but if you want to gain grandfather rights on the premises then you have to follow the rules. Fortunately, several of the operating companies are doing this part of the work for you ­ let's hope they get it right, too.

The second point is that plans are being rejected because they are not the right size. It is true that the regulations require plans to be drawn on a scale of 1:100, but there are exceptions, and you should know about this. If, for example, you have a number of floors, or extensive grounds, it may be better for everyone concerned if a different scale is used for the larger areas. What isreally required is for the licensing authority and others to be able to see clearly the matters that are relevant.

The regulations provide for the licensing authority to allow a different scale if you request it, so you need to phone them and ask, first of all, whether you can use a smaller scale, and explain why.

Technically, they then need to give you permission in writing. Once you receive this, then you know you are in the clear if you send in manageable plans at the greater reduction.

I have already done this, and have found licensing officersfor the most part very helpful. They are taking the pragmatic approach and no-one is being disadvantaged. Give it a try.