YOU’VE DECIDED ON A LOFT CONVERSION – NOW WHAT?
Loft conversions are great for adding value to your home, and give you an extra bedroom, office or home gym to enjoy, but it’s difficult to know where to start and everything you need to consider. At Brightman Clarke, we work with a number of families who choose loft conversions due to being able to increase the capacity of their home without the stress of moving. Many find loft conversions are also easier than extending your living space. Here are the things you have to consider before you start your loft conversion.
Is your loft suitable for a conversion?
The majority of lofts can be converted, but it’s always a wise decision to get an architect to check that your loft is suitable. They’ll consider the internal height of your current loft, the pitch of the roof and the footprint of the existing loft space.
What will you use your loft conversion for?
Will your loft conversion be used for an extra bedroom with en-suite bathroom, office or home gym? Knowing what you would use your loft conversion for allows you and your architect to design a conversion that will give you the space and storage you need to meet all your needs, whilst taking into account the restrictions you face from the roof eaves.
Who should you talk to about your loft conversion?
The best people to talk to are experienced architects who make you feel comfortable and have a portfolio of similar work you really like. They will draw up the designs for your loft conversion and help you obtain any Approvals you may need. Architects will also manage your project and use trusted builders they’ve worked with before.
Will you need to consider planning permission and building regulations?
You shouldn’t need to gain planning permission, unless your roof space is being extended or you’ll be exceeding any limits. The best thing to do is check with the local planning department before you start any work.
Building regulations, however, do apply to loft conversions. You will need to ensure the floor of your conversion is sufficiently strong, the existing structure doesn’t lose any stability, the new staircase is safe to use and there is a suitable level of insulation between your loft and lower rooms. You will also need to consider fire safety regulations.
If your loft conversion is subject to The Party Wall Act 1996, you will need to give your neighbours notice of your project.
At Brightman Clarke, our team of experienced architects have helped hundreds of families achieve the loft conversion of their dreams. For more information on our loft conversions, call us on 0114 321 1869 or 01246 383 707. You can also send us a message online.