Loft Conversions
Preston

Perfect for: Smaller lofts, tight budgets, minimal disruption.

Key features

• Utilises existing roof space with strategically placed roof windows (like Velux) for natural light and ventilation.
• Requires minimal structural changes, making it a quicker and more affordable option.
• Ideal for adding a basic bedroom, home office, or storage area.

Limitations

• The headroom can be restricted due to the sloping roof.
• May not be suitable for creating larger or more complex spaces.

Perfect for: Detached and semi-detached properties, maximising headroom and floor space.

Key features

• Adds a box-shaped extension to the back of the roof, creating a more traditional room feel.
• Increases headroom and floor space significantly, offering greater flexibility for layout and use.
• A popular choice for creating bedrooms, bathrooms, or living areas.

Considerations:

• Sometimes requires planning permission and may involve structural changes, increasing cost and timeline.
• May impact the visual appearance of your property from the rear.

Perfect for: Terraced houses with limited space at the rear, adding light and usable area.

Key features:

• Similar to a rear dormer, but the dormer window structures are added to the side of the roof.
• Ideal for creating additional bedrooms, bathrooms, or studies in terraced houses.
• Offers valuable space and light without significantly altering the rear aspect of your property.

Considerations:

• May require planning permission and structural changes, depending on the size and impact.
• Less common than rear dormers, so you need a loft conversion company with adequate experience, like Loft Crew.

Perfect for: Victorian or Edwardian terraced or semi-detached houses, maximising space and versatility.

Key features:

• Combines a rear and side dormer, creating an "L" shape for ultimate use of the available space.
• Ideal for larger projects like master bedrooms with en-suites, family rooms, or even multiple rooms.
• Offers the most flexibility for layout and design due to the extensive usable area.

Considerations:

• Typically requires planning permission due to the extensive structural changes, thus needing a larger investment than some other options.
• Can significantly alter the visual appearance of your property from multiple angles.

Perfect for: creating more internal loft space in hip roofs and maximising space and natural light.

Key features:

• Converts the roof shape from hipped (sloping on all sides) to gabled (with a central ridge).
• Dramatically increases headroom and usable space, eliminating wasted areas under sloping roofs.
• Creates a more traditional and visually appealing roofline, often enhancing property value.

Considerations:

• Requires extensive structural work and planning permission, so a bigger investment is required.
• Not suitable for all roof structures or architectural styles.

Perfect for: Maximising space and light in most property types, creating a luxurious feel.

Key features:

• Raises the entire roofline and adds vertical walls on both sides, essentially creating a new floor within the roof space.
• Offers the most usable space and light of all conversion types, ideal for large open-plan living areas, studios, or multiple rooms.
• Creates a distinctive and elegant roofline, boosting property value and kerb appeal.

Considerations:

• Mansard loft conversions potentially require a bigger investment due to the extensive structural work and materials required.
• Planning permission and potential building regulations hurdles make it a complex project.

Perfect for: Smaller lofts, adding natural light and openness on a budget.

Key features:

• Similar to a Velux conversion but uses larger roof lights for a more significant impact on light and openness.
• Offers a brighter and airier feel to the loft space, enhancing comfort and usability.
• Can be combined with other features like a dormer window or two for additional ventilation and views.

Considerations:

• May not offer the same level of headroom and space as dormer conversions.
• Planning permission might be required depending on the size and impact of the roof lights.

Perfect for: Larger lofts with enough headroom, seeking flexibility and openness for complex layouts.

Key features:

• Spacious and adaptable. This option replaces existing roof trusses with a new support and floor structure, creating a more open and versatile space.
• Increased headroom and floor area. Offers more usable space and flexibility in layout compared to simpler methods.
• Great for creating larger bedrooms, bathrooms or multi-functional spaces.

Considerations:

• It requires significant structural work and materials, so it may need a bigger investment.
• The complex construction involves removing and replacing existing trusses and inserting new floor joists, requiring specialist expertise (although this is not a problem for Loft Crew!).
• May require planning consent if dormer windows are added.

Perfect for: Transforming neglected loft spaces with limited headroom into spacious and practical living areas.

Key features:

• Significantly increased headroom. Raises the existing roof structure by about 1.3 metres, creating a dramatic improvement in usable space and eliminating the typical constraints of low-pitched roofs.
• Drastically expanded living area. Unlike traditional loft conversions that use existing space, this approach essentially adds an additional storey, offering ample room for a variety of uses.
• Cost-effective compared to extensions. Makes use of existing walls and avoids major ground floor disruption, making it a more affordable option for large space gains.
• Wide range of possibilities. Ideal for creating large bedrooms, bathrooms, multi-functional living spaces, or even home offices.

Considerations:

Raising the entire roof structure requires specialist expertise, and you'll definitely need to submit a planning application, making it more involved than simpler conversions.

• Zen Den. Create a haven of peace and mindfulness with calming décor, plush cushions, and a dedicated yoga or meditation space.
• Master Bedroom. Indulge yourself with a large loft extension that boasts full head height, built-in storage and ample room in which to relax and surround yourself with all those luxury bedroom furniture items you've been longing for, but couldn't fit into your old room!
• Home Cinema. Immerse yourself in the magic of movies with a projector screen, surround sound, and comfy seating - perfect for family film nights or solo cinematic escapes.
• Art Studio. Let your creative spirit flow freely in a dedicated studio bathed in natural light, featuring ample storage for paints, brushes, and inspiration.

• Home Office. Ditch the distractions and add space with a dedicated workspace that has ample room for a desk, ergonomic furniture, and organised storage for ultimate productivity.
• Meeting Room. Host clients or colleagues in a stylish yet professional environment, maximising the loft's potential as a collaborative hub.
• Creative Studio. Unleash your inner entrepreneur with a dedicated space for brainstorming, prototyping, and bringing your ideas to life.

• Guest Bedroom. Welcome loved ones with a dedicated guest room, complete with a comfy bed, en-suite bathroom, and thoughtful amenities.
• Playroom. Create a vibrant play space for your kids, stocked with toys, games, and creative activities, fostering imagination and fun. It's a fantastic way of allowing them to let off steam in a fun, safe environment.
• Family Room. Expand your living area with a dedicated family room for movie nights, board games, or simply relaxing together.
• Home Gym. Transform your loft room into a dedicated fitness haven with workout equipment, natural light for motivation, and even a yoga or meditation corner.
• Library. Create a bibliophile's paradise with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, a plush reading nook, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• Rooftop Terrace. If your loft boasts a flat roof, consider adding a rooftop terrace – a haven for al fresco dining, stargazing, or simply enjoying the fresh air.

• Folding Loft Ladders - Ideal for smaller lofts or tight budgets, these ladders retract neatly into the ceiling when not in use, maximising space below. Prices start around £250 for basic models, with electric options reaching £1,000+.
• SpaceSaver Stairs - These innovative designs combine pull-down treads with alternating steps, offering a comfortable ascent while saving precious floor space. Expect to pay between £1,500 and £3,000 depending on materials and finishes.

• Spiral Staircases - Elegant and space-efficient, these beauties add a touch of whimsy and grandeur to your loft. Expect prices starting around £2,000 for basic steel models, with intricate wrought iron designs reaching upwards of £5,000.
• Straight Flight Staircases - The classic choice, straight flights offer a timeless elegance and a sense of openness. Prices range widely depending on materials and length, starting around £2,000 for basic timber models and reaching £10,000+ for bespoke hardwood designs.

• Glass Staircases. Create a light and airy feel with sleek glass treads and stainless steel railings. This statement piece starts around £3,000 and can go higher depending on size and complexity.
• Floating Staircases. Defy gravity with cantilevered treads seemingly floating against the wall. This architectural masterpiece starts at around £5,000 and requires careful planning and expert installation.

Remember, your staircase is more than just steps. Consider incorporating additional features like:

• Storage drawers under the stairs. Maximise space with hidden compartments for shoes, blankets, or other essentials.
• Integrated lighting. Illuminate your stairs and create a welcoming ambience with built-in LED strips or spotlights.
• Custom handrails. Opt for unique materials and shapes, or even integrate glass panels to match your design theme.

• When you use a loft conversion specialist, they will assess your project, advise on planning requirements, and recommend the best approach. An architect will draw up precise loft conversion plans, and a structural engineer will advise on any alterations (particularly roof trusses or load-bearing walls).
• The plans will be scrutinised to see if they fall within the PD limitations before full planning permission is sought.
• Detailed plans, drawings, and supporting documents outlining your proposed loft conversion are gathered, including details of materials, the design, and any potential impact on neighbours.

• Choose your application type. Depending on your project's complexity, you might need a full planning application or a householder application for smaller conversions.
• Submit your application. This involves submitting your prepared documents and paying your local planning authority the appropriate fee.
• Public consultation. Your local authority will advertise your application, allowing neighbours and interested parties to comment.
• Planning officer review. The officer will assess your application against local planning policies and regulations, considering public comments and potential environmental impact.
• Decision and appeal. The authority will issue a decision, granting permission with or without conditions, or refusing the application. You can appeal the decision if needed.

• The entire process can take anywhere from eight to 16 weeks, depending on the complexity and potential objections.
• If you are handling the project yourself, be prepared for additional costs beyond the application fee, such as professional fees and structural surveys. If you use Loft Crew, all of this is included in the overall cost.
• Open communication with your local planning authority and neighbours throughout the process can increase your chances of success.

While it can be a headache, Loft Crew will steer you through this process and deal with the paperwork wherever possible. With our inside knowledge of the process, we can help things to run smoothly. We cover this in more detail in our post “do you need planning permission for a loft conversion”.

These are pre-approved planning rights granted by the government, allowing you to carry out certain home improvements without needing formal planning permission. This can be a significant advantage for loft conversions, streamlining the process and potentially reducing costs.

Do Loft Conversions Fall Under Permitted Development?

It depends! While not all loft conversions qualify, many can be built under these rights, provided they meet specific criteria. These criteria are laid out in the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015 (as amended).

Key Criteria

• Location. Your property must not be located in a conservation area or national park, where stricter planning regulations apply. Listed buildings are generally excluded from PD and require special permission for any significant alterations to the exterior.
• Size. The additional roof space created cannot exceed a specific volume, depending on your house type. For a terraced house, this is 40 cubic metres, while the limit for a detached or semi-detached house is 50 cubic metres. Previous extensions count towards this volume, so be mindful of past modifications.
• Height. No part of the extension can be higher than the highest point of the existing roof slope.
• Materials. External building materials should be similar in appearance to the existing house to maintain overall aesthetics.
• Roof Alterations. Adding balconies or significantly altering the roof shape usually requires planning permission.
• Side Windows. Any windows facing a side elevation must be non-opening or obscure glazed unless they are more than 1.7 metres above the floor level.

Additional Points:

• Lawful Development Certificate. While not mandatory, obtaining a Lawful Development Certificate provides written confirmation from your local authority that your project complies with permitted development rights. This can be helpful for future buyers or potential disputes. Loft Crew highly recommends getting one of these certificates.
• Building Regulations Approval. Even under permitted development, your loft conversion must still comply with all relevant building regulations, ensuring structural safety and energy efficiency (see below for more details).

Professional Guidance. Dealing with all of this can be a headache! Loft Crew will handle all of this for you, and we'll be standing by to assist you with any task you need to complete yourself.

A party wall is any wall shared with your neighbouring property. This includes shared walls between terraces, semi-detached houses, and even the floor or ceiling separating your loft conversion from their living space.

Why is a PWA Needed?

The Party Wall Act 1996 protects both you and your neighbours when undertaking any kind of building work near or on a shared wall. It ensures any necessary structural alterations are carried out safely and minimises potential disputes.

When is a PWA Required for a Loft Conversion?

If your loft conversion involves any work that could affect the shared wall's structural integrity, you need a PWA. This includes:

• Removing a chimney breast to create more space
• Cutting into the wall to insert beams for structural support
• Underpinning the wall due to the added weight of the conversion

What Does a PWA Involve?

This agreement outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties during the construction process. It typically covers:

• The specific work planned and its potential impact on the party wall
• Access arrangements for builders and surveyors
• Responsibilities for any damage caused to the wall
• Dispute resolution procedures

How Do I Get a PWA?

• Serve a Party Wall Notice. Inform your neighbours of the work planned and your intention to appoint a surveyor.
• Agree on the Terms. Surveyors negotiate and draft a formal agreement outlining the agreed-upon terms.
• Sign the Agreement. Both parties sign the agreement, making it legally binding.

It's important to understand that your neighbour is not legally obliged to sign this agreement. This doesn't necessarily mean that the work can't go ahead, but it can cause complications as they may seek a court injunction.

Hopefully, the matter can be resolved well before this, but we always recommend that our clients maintain a civil, amicable and open relationship with neighbours to avoid any potential legal issues.

Loft Crew is happy to liaise on your behalf and reassure your neighbours if they have any concerns about the work to be carried out. We cover this in more detail in our post “do I need a party wall agreement for loft conversions”.

No matter the size or scope of your loft conversion, building regs approval is always required if you plan to use the space for habitable purposes. This means converting it into a bedroom, bathroom, living area, or any other room intended for human occupation. Even minor alterations, such as adding roof lights or installing fixed stairs, necessitate approval.

A registered building control officer will issue a completion certificate after the final inspection, but only if all regulations are met.

What Do Building Regulations Cover?

The key points that will be checked by the building control officer are as follows:

Structural Stability - This focuses on the load-bearing capacity of your existing structure and any new elements introduced during the conversion. It ensures your loft can safely support its intended use and withstand potential loads like wind and snow. This might involve calculations by a qualified structural engineer.

Fire Safety - Fire safety regulations prioritise the safety of occupants in case of a fire. This includes requirements for fire doors, compartmentation, fire-resistant materials, and mains-powered smoke alarms. The specific requirements depend on the size and layout of your loft conversion. Existing doors to the staircase must be replaced with a fire door capable of twenty minutes of fire resistance.

Means of Escape - Clearly defined escape routes are essential in case of a fire or other emergency. Aside from fire doors, all first-floor habitable rooms must have an 'egress point' such as a window big enough and low enough to escape through. Regulations dictate the width, headroom, and accessibility of stairs, landings, and other escape routes, ensuring safe and quick evacuation.

Ventilation and Thermal Performance - Proper ventilation prevents dampness, condensation, and mould growth. Regulations specify minimum ventilation requirements and standards for thermal insulation, ensuring your loft is well-ventilated and energy-efficient.

Drainage - Effective drainage systems prevent water ingress and damage. Regulations address the design and installation of gutters, downpipes, and any additional drainage systems required for your loft conversion.

Disabled Access - While not always mandatory, depending on the size and purpose of your loft, regulations encourage provisions for disabled access. This might involve wider doorways, accessible toilets, and features that cater to individuals with disabilities.

Energy Requirements - Building regulations promote energy efficiency in new construction. Depending on the size and complexity of your loft conversion, you may need to meet specific energy performance standards, potentially involving insulation upgrades or renewable energy sources.

The Importance of Compliance

Building regulations exist to ensure the safety, structural integrity, and energy efficiency of your conversion. Failing to comply can lead to serious consequences, including:

• Fines. You may face hefty fines from your local authority (up to £5,000, plus £50 per day for every day after conviction that the work is not corrected).
• Enforcement action. The council may order you to demolish or alter your conversion to comply with regulations.
• Safety risks. An unauthorised conversion could pose fire, structural, or other safety hazards.
• Difficulties selling. Selling your property with an unauthorised conversion may be difficult, as potential buyers will require a completion certificate demonstrating compliance.

Expert Guidance From Loft Crew

We will ensure that your conversion is safe, legal, and complies with all requirements using our own experience as well as advice from architects, surveyors and building control specialists.