Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need planning permission for my loft conversion?
A loft conversion can be built under Permitted Development (PD) rights without requiring full planning permission, provided it meets strict government size, volume, and design limits. You must still apply for Building Regulations approval to ensure safety, structural integrity and fire regulations.
Full Planning Permission is required where you extend or alter the roof space and it exceeds specified limits and conditions.
What is Permitted Development?
Permitted Development (PD) rights are national rules that let you do certain building work without applying for full planning permission, as long as the work stays within set limits. For loft conversions, the main limits are 40m³ of extra roof space for terraced houses and 50m³ for semi-detached and detached houses. The extension also cannot go higher than the existing roof or beyond the front roof slope facing the road.
PD rights do not apply to flats and maisonettes, and they can be restricted in conservation areas or where the council has an Article 4 Direction. We can apply for a Lawful Development Certificate, which is official proof that your loft conversion is lawful. It is useful when you come to sell.
How long does a loft conversion take?
The building work usually takes between 6 and 12 weeks, depending on the type of conversion. A Velux (rooflight) conversion is the quickest. Dormer and hip-to-gable conversions take longer, and a mansard is the longest.
Allow extra time before work starts for drawings, Building Regulations approval and, where needed, planning permission or Party Wall agreements. We give you a clear timeline at the quotation stage, so you know what to expect.
Do I need plans drawn up for my loft conversion?
Yes. Even when you don’t need planning permission, you still need detailed drawings to get Building Regulations approval. These include architectural plans and structural calculations for the new floor, steelwork and staircase.
If your project needs planning permission, or a Lawful Development Certificate, we also prepare the drawings for that application. We handle the whole process for you, so you don’t need to find an architect or engineer separately.
Can I have other refurbishment work carried out at the same time?
Yes, and it is often a good idea. Many homeowners combine their loft conversion with a rear extension, new wiring, a new boiler, or redecorating the lower floors. Doing it all at once means one team, one set of scaffolding and one period of disruption.
It can also save money, because the trades are already on site. Tell us about your plans at the free consultation, so we can plan the order of work properly. Some jobs, like a rear extension, may need their own planning or Building Regulations approval.
How much disruption should I expect during my building work?
Most families stay in their home throughout the build. You should expect some noise, dust and builders coming and going during working hours. The noisiest stage is usually the first few weeks, when the scaffold goes up and the roof is opened.
We protect floors and stairs, keep the site tidy every day, and tell you in advance about any short water or electricity shut-offs. Your project manager is your single point of contact and keeps you updated at each stage.
Can I have a bathroom in my loft conversion?
Yes. En-suite bathrooms and shower rooms are among the most popular loft additions. The main things to plan are drainage, water pressure, ventilation and enough headroom, especially over the shower.
Placing the bathroom above an existing bathroom or soil pipe usually keeps the cost down. If that isn’t possible, there are other drainage options, such as a macerator pump. We check this during the site survey and include it in your fixed-price quote.
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