Loft Conversion Planning Tips
When it comes to loft conversions, there are often a great deal of questions surrounding planning permission and relevant laws. Understandably, people sometimes assume that planning permission isn’t needed as you’re essentially ‘going up’ as opposed to ‘going out’.
In some cases, they wouldn’t be wrong however, even if a loft conversion doesn’t require planning permission, there are still relevant laws to adhere to. Today, we’re looking at loft construction planning permission and the laws you need to be aware of.
Planning Permission – Do I Need It?
In order to check whether you need planning permission, you’ll need an architect or builder in order to confirm this. This is something we can do during our free consultation process.
As a rough guide however, you shouldn’t require planning permission if your conversion won’t exceed 40 cubic metres on a terraced house or 50 cubic metres on a Detached or semi-detached.
It must be noted however that this allowance includes any extra space you create with this loft conversion and any extra space you may have created with previous home extensions.
- You must also ensure the extension does not go beyond the outermost part of the existing roof slope at the front of the house or higher than the very highest part of the pitch.
- Along with these guidelines, you must also ensure all materials used are similar to those used on the existing parts of the house.
- No balconies or raised platforms can be created, nor any side facing windows.
If you can adhere to this, and your home isn’t sat within any land of outstanding national beauty or conservation areas, then you are likely able to go ahead with your loft conversion without the need for planning permission.
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What Else Needs To Be Considered?
Regardless of whether you need planning permission or not, there are a number of other aspects that you’ll need to consider.
Building Regulations
Building regulations are there to ensure any works carried out are structurally sound. They’re there to ensure that new rooms created through your loft conversion meet fire safety codes while also ensuring they’re well insulated for both heat and sound.
When it comes to the specifications, this will all depend greatly on the loft conversion you’re having however as a rough guide:
- Fire safety regulations will include things such as fire-resistant doors and mains connected fire alarms.
- It’s likely floor joists will also need to be replaced to strengthen the current floor.
- New stairs will need to be added in order to gain access to your new level while also providing an escape route in the event of a fire.
There are many different aspects that need to be taken into consideration when it comes to building regulations which is why, once again, it’s best to work with a professional.
Party Wall Agreement
Once you have the necessary permissions, planning permission and building regulations, you’ll also need to consider the Party Wall Agreement. This is needed if the work you’re planning on is going to affect your neighbours wall. This is an agreement that ensures the work being carried out is fair and won’t cause any damage or harm to your neighbours property.
Contact Us Today
If you’d like more information on loft conversion design and planning, please don’t hesitate to contact our team today on 0203 950 7957. Our team will be only too happy to help.