Is It Possible To Convert My Loft?
This is the first question we need to ask. To help you come to this decision we recommend you consider the following questions:
- Will there be enough head room? Take 250-300 mm off the height of your current roof space as this will be taken up by new roof insulation and an upgrade to the floor.
- Do I have minimum 2 metres clearance at the top of the stairs for a new staircase?
It’s important to be honest with yourself at this point. If you don’t have the space to meet these requirements then you might need to rethink your plans.
Planning Permission and Permitted Development
Once we have established if your loft conversion project is feasible we will be only too happy to discuss the architectural design and development of this with you and submit all the necessary paperwork for a planning application if one is needed. Loft conversions can sometimes be done within Permitted Development but you are limited to 40 cubic metres. Anything larger and you will need to submit a planning application. Additional space can be created by adding a dormer. We would advise you about all of this and put together all the necessary paperwork for you if required.
Safety Features and Fire
As you will be creating an additional floor, you will need a clear fire evacuation route for the people who will be using the loft space and fire doors throughout. This normally includes adding fire doors to all the rooms leading off the hallway, or putting smoke alarms in each room.
Strengthening the Structure
We will work with a structural engineer who will calculate how large the steelwork will have to be. The roof structure will have to be redesigned to accommodate new insulation and to fit on new steels. The floors will also need to be strengthened to accommodate the new use.
Useful Resources
Before you consider a loft conversion we would recommend you take a look at the Planning Portal’s guidelines about loft conversions. If you have a feasible loft conversion project you would like to discuss with us, please get in touch.
