Ceiling Fire Protection

[Anonymous]

I am currently renovating flats in a 1900's property. We have some lovely ornate celing cornice which of course I would love to keep. The Building Control Officer is insisting that we bring the ceilings up to 1/2 hour fire barrier, he suggests a false ceiling with a double layer of plasterboard. This will be horrible and of course hide the existing ceilings which are in good condition. I am sure you can get fire retardant paint, has anyone any experience of this? Does it bring a lath & plaster ceiling up to 1/2 house protection?

 

[Anonymous]

You might be able to do some fireproofing from above by taking up the floors above and relaying over a fire retardent blanket with pugging between the joists (if it's a separate flat upstairs you'll probably also have to improve the acoustic separation in a similar way). Combined with smoke detection, possibly sprinklers, and retardent paint, this might work. Have a look at the websites of some of the insulation manufacturers.
If it's not a listed building, you may have problems.

 

[Anonymous]

Just to clarify Steve, are these existing flats or are you converting to new flats?

If existing and you are just renovating, I wonder why is the BCO involved?

If you are converting, then what sound control are you installing? Sound control measures are usually way in excess of minimum fire proofing requirements.