Gillingham Drylining FAQ
Do I need fire-rated plasterboard in my HMO in Gillingham?
Yes, almost certainly. HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) conversions in Gillingham fall under Article 4 of the Town and Country Planning Act and require planning permission from Gillingham City Council. Building Regulations Part B (Fire Safety) applies throughout.
For an HMO, you will typically need:
- 30-minute fire-rated plasterboard (Type F, 12.5mm or 15mm) to all escape routes (stairs, landings, hallways) - 60-minute fire-rated plasterboard between integral garage and living space (if applicable) - Fire-rated ceilings in cellars where used as habitable space - Self-closing fire doors (FD30 or FD60 depending on location) - Smoke detection to BS 5839-6 (Grade D, LD2 minimum) - Fire-stopping around services penetrations
Gillingham City Council Building Control will inspect at key stages (pre-plasterboard, completion). We manage this on your behalf and provide the completion certificate for your HMO licence application.
Fire-rated plasterboard adds about £5 - £9 per m² over standard board in Gillingham.