Loft conversions – what not to do
As we know, loft conversions present a whole range of opportunities to enjoy your home, giving different options to add those rooms you may be missing already.
But while there may be a whole world of possibilities, there’s also a lot of things that are a no-no…
Don’t forget planning permission
Whether you need this or not relies on a number of factors, including the type of property and where it is. If you live in a listed building or in a conservation area, or a flat or maisonette, then it will be necessary to seek planning permission.
The legislation that most loft conversions fall under is permitted developments – which means that they don’t need planning permission, and will be a lot quicker to proceed with.
Don’t fall out with your neighbours
No matter where you live, you will need to Building Regulations approval, and depending on the type of conversion and property, you may need a Party Wall Agreement – which is where your neighbours come in.
Don’t bypass building regulations
Every project has to meet building regulations, for your own safety while using the space and to meet insurance rules. Building materials need to comply with fire regulations, and consideration needs to be given to fire access in terms of windows and staircases. It’s also important to have good quality insulation to ensure your new room is warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Don’t just assume your loft space is suitable for a loft conversion
Your roof will be the biggest issue when it comes to loft conversions. There are a few questions which you need to answer straight away – does the roof have trusses? Is there enough space? Can you stand in your loft space already? If you are planning to use the room every day, then you will need to make sure that you can stand in it comfortably now, and ideally there will be a space of 2.2m between the floor and ridge of the roof.
Don’t go with the first quote you get
This may sound like a strange thing for us to say, as of course, we would like to help you, but we want you to feel that you are in control of every aspect of your project. It’s recommended that you seek out at least three quotes from specialists companies. Don’t just look at the cost – check that all the companies that you are getting quotes from have insurance and are registered with an official body such as the CIOB and FMB.
Don’t forget a contingency budget
Having approximately 10% put aside in contingency budget will help just in case your project changes along the way, or you change your mind on fixture and fittings, or any other furniture you would like in your new loft space.
So they are some of the things that you shouldn’t do, which should help you to get a better picture of what you should do… or what you could do. The possibilities are many with loft conversions. If you would like to talk about your options, please get in touch. We’d love to help you.
