Loft Conversions Guidelines and Planning

Whatever your loft-related goals are and how you want to build loft conversions, you need to determine which planning area your project falls within. Some projects may not require planning permission. Others will need to be reviewed by the local authority. It is a serious offence to undertake work without proper planning. This can lead to fines or even the demolition of the project. It pays to be knowledgeable about what is what.

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Loft conversions and permitted developments

Permitted Development Rights were created to allow homeowners to carry out small-scale home improvements without planning. There is one catch; you must follow strict guidelines when converting your loft.

Permitted development rights apply to your loft conversions if they meet the following conditions:

Terraced houses have a volume allowance of 40 cubic meters more roof space.
For detached or semi-detached homes, there is an additional 50 cubic meters of roof space.
There is no extension beyond the roof slope of the principal elevation facing the highway.
The roof’s highest point cannot be extended.
Materials will be identical in appearance to the house already built.
There are no balconies, verandas or raised platforms.
Side-facing windows must be obscure-glazed. Any opening that is 1.7m above floor level must be side-facing.
Other than hip to gable roofs, roof extensions should be placed at least 20cm away from the original eaves.
The roof extension cannot extend beyond the wall of the original home.

Consider the fact that not all homes are eligible for permitted development. Flats, maisonettes, and houses in conservation areas or listed buildings are excluded from this scheme.

Book a free architectural consultation to discuss your project and get a Udex expert.

Legal Development Certificates

Legally, you don’t need any paperwork if your proposed conversion falls within the permitted development.

However, we strongly advise all property owners to file for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC). The certificate is proof that your project was pre-approved by your local authorities before the building began. This certificate protects you from changes in permitted development rules since it can be shown that your construction was legally built at the time. This documentation will be of great benefit to future home buyers.

Are you unsure which planning route is best for your home? All homeowners are entitled to free consultations so they can see what’s happening before they start.

Planning permission

Are you not eligible for permitted development? You don’t have to worry about planning; though planning has a poor reputation, it can be an easy process if you have the appropriate architect on your side.

A professional architect can help you plan your new room, as well as write out the blueprints for your new space. They will not only design your room but also act as your planning agent. They will package your project properly and communicate with the local authority. This will protect you against common planning errors and allow them to quickly make changes to your design if the council suggests.

Here are some facts about planning permission:

Planning takes approximately 8 weeks from the time it is submitted to make a decision.
Although architects are allowed to submit your project, you’ll need to pay the application fees. These fees can vary from one council to the next.
Planning permission is valid for three years if approved.
Planning permission is tied to the property. If you decide to sell your home, it may be offered alongside to increase your house’s value.
Rejections are often based on the impact of neighbouring properties.
Conservation areas have stricter rules for homes.
You have one year to submit modified designs if your application is rejected. The homeowner will not be charged for this service.

Get a quote today to discover more about your project and get a Udex expert.