Loft conversion FAQ
Why should I convert my loft?
Not only will a loft conversion create lots of additional living space, but estate agents agree; a converted loft can add more than 20% to the value of your home, making it an extremely worthwhile investment.
How do I know if my loft can be converted?
As long as you have a minimum of 2.2m (approximately 7ft) from the existing ceiling joist to the underside of the ridge (apex) then you should be to convert this space.
Do I need planning permission for my loft or attic conversion?
It’s unlikely. Regulations came into play on 1st October 2008 that ensured that most loft conversions no longer require planning permission. They are now considered to be permitted development, subject to the following:
- A maximum volume allowance of 40 cubic metres of additional roof space if you’re converting a loft or attic in a terraced house
- A maximum volume allowance of 50 cubic metres additional roof space if you’re converting a loft in a detached or semi-detached house
- You are not allowed to extend your loft beyond the plane of the existing roof slope of the main elevation that fronts the highway
- No part of the loft conversion or extension, including the dormer, can be made higher than the highest part of the roof
- All the materials you use have to be similar in appearance to the existing house
- No balconies, verandas or raised platforms are allowed without planning permission
- Dormers may not to be on the front elevation facing the road or may invade your neighbour’s privacy
- Any side-facing windows should be obscure-glazed. Any opening must be a minimum of 1.7m (approximately 5.5ft) above the floor
- Roof extensions or loft conversions, apart from hip to gable ones, should be set back to at least 20cm from the edge of the room
- Your house should not have already been extended past the permitted development limit of an additional 15% of its original size
How long will it take to get planning permission if I need it?
The length of time to get planning permission varies as the decision is made by your own, individual local council, however, if you work on the basis of eight weeks you shouldn’t be far wrong.
Do Building Regulations apply to loft conversions?
Yes. Building Regulations are different to planning permission, as building Regulations set the standard for the design, construction and health and safety aspects for any building project.
We will ensure that all plans are submitted on your behalf and you get issued with a certificate on the completion of work. Further details can be found on the government’s Planning Portal website.
Do any other permits or regulations apply?
If there is a need for any additional permits, such as for skips and scaffolding we will organise these for you as and when required.
How long will my loft conversion take to complete?
A typical loft conversion will take around 4 to 5 weeks to finish. If we anticipate any delays, for whatever reason, we will let you know in plenty of time.
Are there any fire regulations to consider with a loft conversion?
If you intend to go on to the second floor – as with any double storey house - then yes, you will need fire doors fitting. However, if your property is a single story bungalow and you are going onto the first floor you won’t need fire doors, but you will need to install suitable smoke alarms in both instances.
Is there likely to be much disruption in and around my house?
A quality builder should keep any disruption to a minimum. We have completed literally hundreds of loft conversions around the Yorkshire area and we always try our best to respect the home in which we are working. We want to cause the minimum amount of disruption possible when we commence work. Consider though, that for the first few weeks of a loft conversion, scaffolding will be erected and from the fourth week an opening needs to be cut out and the staircase fitted.
Will we need to move out when work is being done?
No. Most of the work will be done from the outside until we fit the staircase and by this time the structure will be fully secured.
How important is it to be fully trained when doing loft conversions?
Well, if you’re thinking of doing the conversion yourself, we would suggest that you be very careful. You will be dealing with electrics and, in many cases, gas. Every member of our team is very experienced in converting lofts, as each one has worked with us for a minimum of 5 years. They're all CSCS (Construction Skills certificate Scheme) trained. Our electricians are all NIC/ Part P registered and our plumbers are fully Gas Safe registered.
Will a builder always offer a free survey and quote?
We can’t speak for every builder, but all our quotes and surveys are provided for free and without obligation.
Is it fair to expect a guarantee?
Absolutely it is! A reputable builder will always offer a significant guarantee with their work. All our work is fully guaranteed for a period of 10 years due to our association with the Guild of Master Craftsmen.
How much is the architects/building regulations fee?
For a loft conversion you are looking at a fee of approximately £1,300 + VAT. This is taking into account architect and building regulations fees, (including any structural calculations).
Will we need to pay a deposit up front?
Some builders will ask you to pay a deposit up-front. It’s not unusual. We don’t take a deposit. Instead, we work on 3 stages of payment depending on the size of the project, for example on a loft costing £22000:
- First payment at the end of first week of £12,000
- A second payment at end of the second week of £6,000
- A final payment of £4,000 upon completion of the work
The above is not an exhaustive list. If you have any other questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us on Leeds 0113 2370 9117.
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