Do I need fire-rated plasterboard in my HMO in Maidstone?

Yes, almost certainly. HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) conversions in Maidstone fall under Article 4 of the Town and Country Planning Act and require planning permission from Maidstone Borough 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

Maidstone Borough 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 Maidstone.