Householders fixing Fabian-struck homes need building permits to replace walls and other structures, Government warned yesterday.

Planning Director Rudolph Hollis said the process was fairly simple with one-day permits being issued and application fees being waived for storm damage which will be given priority.

Householders will also be given advice on reconstructing walls but Mr. Hollis said more complicated structures like sea walls will need input from a structural engineer. He said: "My concern is if a wall falls down we don't simply have people putting them up on the basis of their basic knowledge without getting the structural details correct."

However, homeowners with listed buildings or living in historic areas should check the need for planning consent.

Replacing roofs, windows and doors with similar items doesn't require planning permission.

Planning's building control section recommends using two brass or stainless steel screws for each concrete eve slate when building around a traditional Bermuda slate roof.

Roof eve overhang should not exceed 18 inches. Government also said dangerous and damaged trees can be removed but work on undamaged trees within conservation areas needed consent.

For further information call 297-7756.