With the right design, planning and budget a loft conversion can be an ideal way to add extra bedrooms or a home office. However, like any major work on your property it’s important to find a builder you can trust. It’s worth taking the time to do some research and look at examples of previous work. Many reputable companies will be happy to let you see photographs of completed loft conversions and speak with customers. Some will even arrange visits so you can get a better idea of their professionalism and quality.
What does loft conversion mean?
While a loft conversion typically doesn’t require planning permission* unless you’re raising the roofline or changing its structure, it will require building regulations approval. This ensures that the new floor will be structurally sound and that stairs are properly designed. In addition, it’s generally required that you install mains powered and interlinked smoke alarms on every floor of the house including the loft.
The most common type of loft conversion is a simple flat roof dormer. Suitable for most properties, this type of loft conversion enables you to increase the ceiling height within your loft and create space for a new staircase.