Hearth Provision and Floor Finishes
225 mm
A hearth may not be necessary if an appliance's flame or incandescent material is positioned at least 225mm above the floor
A hearth may not be necessary if an appliance's flame or incandescent material is positioned at least 225mm above the floor. For all gas appliances, hearths must be clearly marked to inform homeowners and discourage the installation of combustible floor finishes, such as carpet, too close to the appliance, often achieved by a change in floor level.
Basis in regulation
BS 5871
Read the source
How to check it on site
Confirm that gas appliance hearths have clear edge markings or a change in level to indicate the safe zone for floor finishes, or that no hearth is needed if the appliance height allows.
Common failure
Combustible floor finishes extending too close to gas appliances due to inadequate hearth marking or level changes, posing a fire risk.
Last updated 23 August 2026. This is our editorial summary of publicly available regulation, not building control approval or a warranty determination.