Whether it’s to accommodate another bedroom, a new office or simply create additional space, a loft conversion can provide more than just a house upgrade, and it’s easier than you might think.
A loft conversion ensures you won’t need to sacrifice any garden space, often a key attraction for many buyers and homeowners. Furthermore, not only could it offer ample space for storage, it often increases your property value.
While many homeowners are eager to explore fresh design ideas, they may find navigating planning permission and regulations somewhat of a daunting prospect.
This is where we come in.
Plus Rooms have years of experience in designing and building bespoke home extensions and loft conversions. This means we have firsthand knowledge of planning permission, permitted development and any other relevant requirement for regulatory approval. It’s our job to bring your ideas to life, and this includes handling every aspect of the planning process.
Thinking about planning a loft conversion for your home? We’ve put together this complete guide for everything you need to know about loft conversion regulations to get you started.
Loft conversion building regulations
The good news is, loft extensions rarely require planning permission as they generally fall under permitted development rights. But if you have an ambitious plan that could exceed certain limits and conditions, your Plus Rooms designer will be able to advise on whether your plans meet the specific conditions for your local planning authority.
However, building regulations are distinct from planning permission, and apply to all property modifications, including loft conversations. This means you will need approval from a surveyor who will visit the site at various stages and issue a completion certificate. In the UK you will need to ensure that your new conversion adheres to the following:
Fire safety
Making sure your loft extension is safe means complying to fire safety regulations. This includes the installation of mains-powered smoke alarms, fire resistant doors and fire escapes. Finally, it must be shown that any new windows are both large enough and placed low enough to provide a means of escape in the case of a fire.
Structural stability
Your existing ceiling may not have been built to support a loft conversion. Therefore, your home may require structural reinforcements such as new steel floor joists and beams. Furthermore, any new walls need to be able to provide adequate support to the modified structure.
Stairs
Gone are the days of retractable ladders. If the plan is to repurpose your loft into a functional living space, then accessibility is a crucial factor. For example, stairs will need to provide a safe escape in the event of a fire, whilst also providing sufficient support to floors and ceiling. They will also need to provide sufficient support to your floors and ceilings.
Insulation
Sound insulation is another key part of the loft conversion regulations. There needs to be sufficient insulation between rooms – especially if a party wall is involved – but this comes with an added benefit of increased energy efficiency.
At Plus Rooms, we offer bespoke home extensions and loft conversions of the highest quality. We have the skills, experience and dedication to handle every aspect of the designs and build process. This ensures you are left satisfied and ready to enjoy your home’s beautiful transformation. If you’d like to go ahead with a loft conversion with help and support from skilled professionals, contact the Plus Rooms team today.
