If you plan to remove or alter a chimney on a shared wall, you must follow specific laws and guidelines.
In this article, Icon Surveyors will explain what a “Gallows Bracket” is and its specific applications.
Defining a Gallows Bracket and Its Uses
A “Gallows Bracket,” also known as a “chimney gallows bracket,” refers to a steel component that supports a chimney.
These brackets are used when changes are made to the chimney. They are very strong and provide good support, just like their name suggests.
When working on chimneys, it’s important to keep them stable. This is true even if you take away or change a part of the chimney.
Various types of brackets are available, but “chimney gallows brackets” are commonly installed where the party wall meets the chimney stack.
When changing a shared chimney on a party wall, you must follow certain rules and laws.These requirements include acquiring planning permission as per the Planning Act 1990, and complying with The Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
However, if the project involves removing an internal chimney breast (below the roofline) or if the chimney is not part of a shared structure, such as in a bungalow or standalone house, planning permission from the local council is not required.
Building regulations apply when the planned changes have a structural impact, as the chimney is a crucial part of the building’s structure.
There are different bracket types. Using a “Gallows Bracket” helps keep things steady. That’s why you usually need approval from the local council before you install it.
Installation Regulations Guide for a Gallows Brackets and Chimney Stacks
- The party wall where the Gallows Bracket is to be fixed should have a minimum thickness of 225mm.
- The wall should consist of solid brickwork in good condition (i.e., free from severe cracks or bulging).
- The chimney breast width cannot exceed 1200mm. If it does, consult a structural engineer.
- The chimney breast must not protrude more than 340mm into the room.
- The chimney breast being preserved should not extend beyond two storeys, including any roof space.
- The brickwork above the chimney must not be thicker than the brickwork below, as this imbalance could lead to a collapse in high winds.
- The minimum height for a “chimney gallows bracket” must be 1.5 times the projection depth of the chimney breast.
If any of the above requirements cannot be met, an alternative support option, such as a structural steel beam (RSJ), may be necessary.
Local councils give building permits for changing chimneys. They might not allow the use of “chimney gallows brackets” for support sometimes.
Proper chimney maintenance and adherence to regulations are crucial to ensure safety and compliance.
Icon Surveyors are happy to provide free party wall advice to any building or adjoining owners who may be affected by the topics discussed here.
The minimum height for a “chimney gallows bracket” must be 1.5 times the projection depth of the chimney breast.
If any of the above requirements cannot be met, an alternative support option, such as a structural steel beam (RSJ), may be necessary.
It is important to note that local councils issue building permits for chimney modifications and may deny the use of “chimney gallows brackets” for support in certain cases. Proper chimney maintenance and adherence to regulations are crucial to ensure safety and compliance.
Icon Surveyors are happy to provide free party wall advice to any building or adjoining owners who may be affected by the topics discussed here.
About Icon Surveyors
We are a group of seasoned party wall surveying professionals operating throughout London and its neighbouring areas. Here, we share insight crafted by industry specialists.
