I own the leasehold of a ground floor flat. There is one flat above, owned by the council.
The kitchen is about to be replaced, not sure yet whether I do the work or get fitters to do it. (Part P seems to be a potentially expensive stumbling block for me to DIY, although I am well able to do electrical work to a good standard).
Before the kitchen is replaced, the ceiling needs either to be replaced or repaired as floods, a long time ago from upstairs, have damaged it. I'm not sure whether the damage can simply be artexed over acceptably as the ceiling sags where the damage is.
Obviously, artexing (if possible) would be the quickest and easiest solution. As I am no plasterer, someone would have to do that.
If the ceiling is too badly damaged to be artexed, it seems that I have two choices.
1) Rip down the old ceiling and start anew. Messy - but I am happy to do it if need be. 2) Plasterboard over (under?) the existing ceiling, leaving the old ceiling there. Easier and cleaner although loosing a bit of height.Is 2) a no-no?
As I would prefer a flat, untextured, ceiling, is it acceptable to paper and paint the new ceiling rather than have it artexed?
Are there any regulations regarding the thickness and type of plasterboard used for either scenario, bearing in mind that upstairs is a separate dwelling?
Sorry for all the questions. These days, I just know that I am going to fall foul of some regulation or other if I don't ask first :-(
Thanks for any advice.
Steve.