Loft conversions have been popular throughout London for many years. It enables homeowners to increase the internal footprint of their home, particularly in Neasden where families are looking for more living space. Investing in a loft conversion means you can get the extra space that you are looking for, without the hassle and expense of having to move home. Stamp Duty and conveyancing fees is lost money, which could be better invested in enhancing your home.
Despite their popularity, undertaking a loft conversion can be a worry due to the dust and disruption their construction may cause. However, the inconvenience and disruption soon passes, and before you know it the build is complete and you can look forward to years enjoying your additional space. In this article, we advise you on what you need to know before starting a loft conversion.
Do I need planning permission?
The first step is to research the latest planning regulations from your local borough, as their regulations can change. If you’re adding less than 50 cubic meters of additional living space to your existing property, it is likely that your loft conversion will fall under permitted development. However, if you need to change the roof structure, or if you live in a flat or conservation area, it is highly likely that seeking planning permission is a must.
What is permitted development?
Permitted development in the United Kingdom refers to certain types of development work that can be carried out without the need for a full planning permission application. Permitted development rights are governed by planning laws and regulations and vary depending on the type of property and its location. The idea behind permitted development is to streamline the planning process for minor and straightforward projects, making it easier and quicker for property owners to make certain changes to their properties.
Common examples of permitted development projects include home extensions such as small-scale extensions to residential properties, such as loft conversions, rear extensions, and garage conversions, may be allowed under permitted development rights, subject to certain size and design restrictions.
It’s important to note that permitted development rights are not universal, and they can be subject to various conditions, limitations, and exceptions. Additionally, local planning authorities may have specific local development plans and restrictions in place that could override national permitted development rights.
Before proceeding with any development work under permitted development rights, it’s advisable to check with your local planning authority to confirm whether your project qualifies and to ensure compliance with any local regulations.
What kind fo lofts can be constructed with planning permission?
Homeowners in the UK can typically construct various types of lofts with planning permission, subject to local regulations. Common loft conversions include dormer, hip-to-gable, and mansard extensions, each offering additional living space. Dormer lofts involve adding a box-like extension with vertical windows, providing headroom and room for windows. Hip-to-gable conversions alter sloping roofs into gable ends for more space. Mansard conversions reshape the entire roof, creating a flat roof with a steep slope, often used for extensive living areas. The specific loft type permitted depends on factors like local zoning laws, property type, and conservation area status, so consulting the local planning authority is crucial.
What are building regulations and how do I get building regulations approval?
Building regulations enable local authorities to control the quality of the build in their area. During the build process a qualified person will visit your property to check the build and make sure it adheres to all of their standards. Neasden Structural Engineers are aware of local planning requirements and can advise you of what is permitted at the design stage, to ensure that all building regulation checks go smoothly, so long as your builder follows our plans. At the end of the build, you will be given a Building Control Completion Certificate which you will need when you sell the property, together with the planning approval.
Will I need a Party Wall Agreement?
Where you share walls with your neighbours, you will need a Party Wall Agreement in place before you start any building works. It’s an agreement whereby the neighbours sign a document that states the quality and existing condition of the shared wall. Should anything impact the integrity of the walls, it will help decide whether it occurred as a result of the loft conversion build. This document gives protection to all parties. If you don’t give notice to your neighbours, they are within their rights to ask you to stop building works until an agreement is in place. The cost for this always falls on the homeowner undertaking the building work.
How long will do loft conversions take to build?
Most loft conversion takes 6-8 weeks, depending on the size and specification. A larger one can take longer. Most of the work of the loft conversion build is done with the original house intact. The disruption comes when the stairs need to go in, as that is when the opening from the original house will be made. Internal work on the loft conversion then takes place. However, many build projects can overrun, so mentally prepare for longer disruption!
How much does a loft conversion cost?
It’s hard to give a definitive price on a loft conversion, as each house is different and in recent years, building prices have risen considerably. Wanting a bathroom or shower room within your loft space will require a larger budget. Give Neasden Structural Engineers a call and we can have someone assess your property and advise you what about what construction may be possible to achieve within the space that you have.
Does a loft conversion add value to the property?
Completed loft conversions with the approval of Building Control will instantly increase the asking price of your home, so don’t be put off by making an initial investment. Not only will you profit from the extra space, but it you can recoup this outlay the day you come to sell.
Neasden Structural Engineers are experienced in structural drawings and calculations not only for loft conversions but also for domestic alterations and extensions. We have worked on a number of loft conversion calculations and frequently help clients in Camden, Chiswick, Ealing, East Finchley, Edgware, Hampstead, Harrow, Kilburn, Shepherds Bush, Wembley and Willesden.
Feel free to get in touch and tell us about your project and what you would like to achieve. We believe that no loft conversion project is too big or too small. Our experienced structural consultants are always ready to provide you with valuable structural engineering advice. Get in touch with our team of professionals today by calling 020 8088 2243.
