While this is a coza website, we are including information about building regulations and construction standards, not only in South Africa, but in other countries as well.
Links to Local South African Websites of interest:
NHBRC (National Home Builders Registration Council)
SAIA (The South African Institute of Architects)
SABS (The South African Bureau of Standards)
Links to International Websites of interest:
Building Regulations and Planning Portal UK
The International Code Council USA
Building Code of Australia BCA
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Hi Annie,
This is a critical query as it involves fire safety, which is a major concern with thatch roofs.
According to the National Building Regulations (NBR), specifically SANS 10400 Part T (Fire Protection) and SANS 10400 Part L (Roofs), there are specific “safety distances” required between buildings and structures, especially when one has a combustible roof like thatch. While your new carport will use Chromadek, the proximity to a highly combustible thatch roof is the primary concern for the local authority.
The standard NBR stipulates that a thatch roof must be at least 4.5 meters from a boundary to prevent fire spread to a neighboring property. While this is not a boundary, it provides a crucial reference for the distance required between a combustible structure and a non-combustible one. Many building regulations, like those for certain developments, require a minimum separation distance of 3 meters between a carport with a non-combustible roof (like Chromadek) and a thatch roof.
Given the size of your proposed carport (36m²), it is likely to be classified as “minor building work,” but this does not exempt it from requiring approval from your local authority. A key part of the approval process will be a fire safety assessment by a competent person (such as an architect or engineer). They will need to produce a “rational design” to demonstrate that the proposed carport, despite its proximity to the thatch roof, will not pose a fire risk. The use of Chromadek for the carport roof is a positive step in this regard, as it is a non-combustible material.
For a definite answer, you must consult with your local municipality’s building control officer. They will provide the final ruling based on their interpretation of the regulations and the specific details of your property.
Disclaimer: This information is for guidance purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice from a registered architect or engineer. It is essential to engage a competent person to ensure your building plans are compliant with the latest SANS 10400 standards and are approved by your local authority.
References:
SANS 10400 Part T: The application of the National Building Regulations – Part T: Fire protection.
SANS 10400 Part L: The application of the National Building Regulations – Part L: Roofs.
Building Regulations and Building Standards Act (Act 103 of 1977): The national legislation that governs all building and construction work in South Africa.
Best Regards, Janek
Good day, I am looking at having a carport (36m²) erected. I have a thatch roof house and want to confirm how far the carport should be from the thatch roof. Chromadec will be used for the carport to reduce fire risk. Can you please advise?
This will be governed by council bylaws
Good day
I am about to rent a residential property with business rights. Where do I find out what kind of business I can operate from the property and the requirements I must adhere to?
You need to lock at the NBR that relate to drainage. Your neighbour has a responsibility to ensure that ALL rain from buildings on his property is drained properly – and draining it onto your driveway is not acceptable. There is a lot of info on this site about similar scenarios.
Good day, I need some advise. I’m currently living in a duplex with a solid wall dividing our driveway and the next door neighbours. The neighbour is currently erecting a pitched car port. My biggest concern is that all the rain and leaves is now being redirected into our drive-way and onto our cars because of the pitch in their car port. Is there any regulation with car ports being erected with shared drive ways?
Unless this is minor building work he needs plans and must comply with building regs. Also, if you have a body corporate or other body in the townhouse development they would need to give permission. Contact them and contact the local authority for clarification of what is allowed.
Hi Jeanette, What statement? What account? Not with us we are not the NHBRC and do not do registrations, please go to the correct website: http://www.nhbrc.org.za/ NOTE: the last time I checked their website was down so you can try and call these numbers: (011) 317 0000 / 0800 200 824
Hi guys can you please help me i’m a home owner which site can I log in to check my statement? Jeanett Moeletsi Rustenburg
Good day,
My neighbour is building a (steel construction) new carport structure 1 meter from my windows and close against the community wall against the two townhouses.
Your speedy answer will be appreciated.
Thank you
Pam