Hello, we have the following issue: the architect incorrectly marked the chimney location on the upper floor. When the masons were ready to start after the chimney was built up to the upper floor, they realized that the chimney was misplaced by about 1 meter (3 feet), which now disrupts the entire floor plan. What was previously a practical, square layout is now quite awkward and irregular.
Our construction company did not notice this error when submitting the building permit / planning application and so on.
We would like to completely relocate the chimney, but we have been told that this is supposedly not possible for structural reasons. However, the construction company has not specified these reasons, so I do not believe it and would actually want to insist on moving it. The house is already clad with bricks and the roof is finished.
Now my questions: Is relocating or demolishing and rebuilding a chimney really that problematic?
If we have to live with the awkward and undesirable floor plan, can we then claim reimbursements for the drawings and also demand further compensation? After all, we will have to live in these awkward rooms and will probably be quite frustrated, since the chimney now comes out directly at the end of the stairs.
Thank you very much for your opinions. I understand that a chimney or fireplace is not necessary for insulation reasons...
Our construction company did not notice this error when submitting the building permit / planning application and so on.
We would like to completely relocate the chimney, but we have been told that this is supposedly not possible for structural reasons. However, the construction company has not specified these reasons, so I do not believe it and would actually want to insist on moving it. The house is already clad with bricks and the roof is finished.
Now my questions: Is relocating or demolishing and rebuilding a chimney really that problematic?
If we have to live with the awkward and undesirable floor plan, can we then claim reimbursements for the drawings and also demand further compensation? After all, we will have to live in these awkward rooms and will probably be quite frustrated, since the chimney now comes out directly at the end of the stairs.
Thank you very much for your opinions. I understand that a chimney or fireplace is not necessary for insulation reasons...
Musketier schrieb:
Isn't there usually a fresh air supply to the fireplace from below to avoid taking air from the room?
That would be in the wrong place then.No, everything takes place INSIDE the chimney. That’s how it was explained to us.
But wouldn’t it be possible to place the entrance to the bedroom in clipboard 2
simply above the fireplace? And remove this bathroom corner instead? That way, you would have the full 432 cm (170 inches) along the bathroom wall for a wardrobe. After all, the staircase is already installed in a shortened version – or do you plan to replace it again?
simply above the fireplace? And remove this bathroom corner instead? That way, you would have the full 432 cm (170 inches) along the bathroom wall for a wardrobe. After all, the staircase is already installed in a shortened version – or do you plan to replace it again?
Yes, the door could be placed behind the chimney, but we would prefer not to do that. We want to keep the option open to possibly close off the office in the future, so a wall could be installed there relatively easily. Also, I think if we always have to walk around the chimney, we will get more frustrated about the design flaw....
The staircase really shouldn’t be shortened any further; it already seems quite steep after the first reduction...
Thanks for the responses regarding the chimney. Yes, the slab was reinforced extensively around the chimney area, and I was hoping that shifting it by a few centimeters (inches) wouldn’t be too critical.
Let’s see if we can find a better solution for us—now I at least know that the chimney either has to stay or be completely removed. I think I’ve already found the perfect spot for the dartboard...
The staircase really shouldn’t be shortened any further; it already seems quite steep after the first reduction...
Thanks for the responses regarding the chimney. Yes, the slab was reinforced extensively around the chimney area, and I was hoping that shifting it by a few centimeters (inches) wouldn’t be too critical.
Let’s see if we can find a better solution for us—now I at least know that the chimney either has to stay or be completely removed. I think I’ve already found the perfect spot for the dartboard...
B
Bauexperte5 Jan 2016 11:16Hello,
Whatever you decide, make sure that all communication with your building insurer on this issue—including the expert—takes place in writing. Sooner or later, the term “proportionality” will come up, and naturally, builders and insurers interpret this differently.
Regards, Bauexperte
bekafl schrieb:Okay. In principle, relocating the chimney flue is possible; however, the effort and costs are significant since a floor slab, like the roof covering, would have to be penetrated.
The construction is slab-on-grade without a basement.
bekafl schrieb:Stop drafting plans—no sensible person arranges rooms around a chimney flue; usually, it’s omitted—and wait for the discussion with your building insurer. I imagine the most cost-effective solution for your insurer is to dismantle the chimney flue. Instead, install a stainless steel flue outside and reconsider where the final chimney will be placed. It is still early enough to leave out the underfloor heating where needed and to adjust the floor construction to the future chimney.
I would really appreciate any solution.
Whatever you decide, make sure that all communication with your building insurer on this issue—including the expert—takes place in writing. Sooner or later, the term “proportionality” will come up, and naturally, builders and insurers interpret this differently.
Regards, Bauexperte
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