Loft conversion planning

Want more up top? Time to think loft conversion

Does your home have potential to have more up top? Our loft space can offer the potential for a new master bedroom, bathroom, workspace or chill out zone for the family. A good loft conversation can not only add space, it can also increase the value of your property. Preparation is key and the first job you need to do is to look out of your window! This is the best way to see what your neighbours have achieved. If your street is boasting dormers and loft conversions then it is more than likely a loft conversion is possible or that you’ll be able to gain the necessary planning permissions. A street of loft conversions for a future loft converter, is good news!

Go Timber!

Timber will be integral to your project. Arnold Laver will have the timber you need. Whether you’re running a large commercial project or smaller domestic, we stock the timber suitable for such building projects. If we don’t have it in stock, we will source it separately and work to fit in with your needs and timetable. We can supply cut-to-fit using your measurements on hardwood, softwood and engineered timber. We can manufacture and machine your timber to your exact specifications, so your timber arrives on site ready to go. Arnold Laver also offers a Biesse Rover 30 machining centre, controlling the drilling and routing process for any CNC requirements. You can rely on us for the best in environmental credentials, fire retardancy and quality control from our site to yours. All those elements that are vital to a loft conversion for your peace of mind.  Find out more about options available to our customers here.

Know your Rafters from your Trusses

Dependent on the type of loft conversion you’re after (dormer, mansard or rooflight), you will need to ensure you have a minimum of 2.2m at the tallest part of your loft. Otherwise you may need to consider raising your roof for which you will certainly need to seek planning permission. It’s also worth assessing access ahead of deciding what design is best for you, whether your loft includes chimney stacks, water tanks, needs additional supports and whether you have trusses (timbers which cross-section your loft space which will require additional support if you remove) or rafters (simpler to convert) which run around the edge leaving the loft space void. Think hard about the use of your room, will you run to an en suite – then think about the plumbing – think safe access and ensure that your loft conversion genuinely adds value to your home.

Checklist for Permissions

This is a simple process so don’t be put off. However, we want to ensure you have the facts so you’re confident in the preparation for your loft conversion. 

If your neighbours have successfully converted their lofts, it is most likely that you will be able to too. However you will need to reach the necessary standards in building regulations – that is a must. More on this later. Permission isn’t required in general as most loft conversions are considered permitted development. If you can adhere to a range of conditions such as not exceeding 40 cubic metres for terraced houses, and 50 cubic meters for detached or semi-detached – this includes any additional space you have already added beyond the original build. The new conversion doesn’t reach beyond the outermost part of the existing roof slope, nor any higher than the highest part of the roof.

Materials need to be similar to those used on the existing roof, without verandas, balconies or platforms and any new windows overlooking neighbours use frosted glass. It’s worth checking where you live against any prerequisite permissions which may differ such as living in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or World Heritage Sites. To avoid any doubt, we recommend you visit the local government planning permissions – a useful guide for getting it right. Regulations are a legal requirement so key to a safe build. Your builder or architect will help you. 2022 sees some updated regulations with the environment as well as safety in mind. Check out this quick checklist here on regulations.

Our mantra is as always give yourself time to ensure everything is in place – these administrative tasks can take a little while to come through but they are vital.

Now you’ve researched the facts, it’s time to get inspired. That master bedroom with en suite is within reach. Do your prep and let Arnold Laver help you build the dream. 2022 is the year to get building and we have everything you need.