With the current property market, many London homeowners are looking to increase their space without the cost and hassle of moving houses. Instead of uprooting your life and searching for a new house, a loft conversion offers a cost-effective and practical solution to expand your living space. Investing in a loft conversion not only expands your living space but also increases the value of your property. This attractive feature can significantly enhance the overall market value and desirability of your home. A thoughtfully designed and well-executed loft conversion can be a compelling selling point when the time comes to put your property on the market, making it a smart long-term investment. While a loft conversion is a smart investment, not all properties are suitable for a loft conversion. Simply Loft has created this short guide on what makes your property suitable for a loft conversion. 

 

Ceiling height

For a loft conversion to be a viable option, and for it to pass building regulations, your ceiling height will need to be 2.2 meters from the floor joist to the highest point. This means there is still enough ceiling height (around 1.9-2.0m) once the roof has been insulated and the floor built up. If you find there is not enough ceiling space, it might be possible to come up with a solution to increase the ceiling height. However, if you live in a conservation area it is unlikely you will get planning permission to alter the roof.

 

Access and stairs

Staircases are a vital part of a loft conversion, not just for access but for building regulations too. There must be at least 1.9m of headroom for the stairs and the maximum pitch is 42 degrees. There is no minimum width. Simply Loft will be able to discuss staircase options with you and can match your existing staircases or create a new design entirely. 

 

Loft conversion in a flat

It is possible in some cases to add a loft extension to a flat. To do this you will need to own the freehold for the flat as well as the loft space. It is also highly likely you will need to have a party wall agreement with any flats below and to the side of you. Take a look at how we transformed this top floor mansion block flat with a loft conversion. 

 

Planning permission

In London, the criteria for planning permission varies from borough to borough, and even within your borough, the rules can be different depending on the area you live in. For example, if you live in a conservation area. Not all loft conversions need planning permission and we can help you determine if you need planning permission or not. If you do need planning permission, or live in a conservation area, we can help you through the process, and our team of architects at Simply Architects, will be able to create designs that pass the planning process. 

 

What would make my house not suitable for a loft conversion?

Unfortunately, not every property is suitable for a loft conversion. Here is a list of why one may not be right for your property:

  • The ceiling height is too low and raising the roof is not possible
  • You do not own the freehold to the loft space. A surprisingly common issue in London
  • You live in a conservation area or live in a listed building and are not permitted to make alterations. However, it is usually possible to find a design solution that will pass the conservation rules and keep the planners happy.

If you’d like to add more space to your home with a loft conversion, contact the Simply Loft team today on 0800 917 7571 to book in for your free site survey. 

Can you convert a loft without planning permission?

Yes, you can convert a loft without planning permission if your plans fall within lawful development rights, outlined by your local building authority. This will depend on the size, shape, and volume of your loft conversion, and location of your property.

Can every house have a loft conversion?

No, not all homes are suitable for a loft conversion. There are many factors which will determine if it is possible, including the ridge height, restrictions with roof alterations, structure of the existing property and if your home is located in a conservation or heritage zone.

Can you have a loft conversion in a semi detached house?

Yes, you can have a loft conversion in a semi-detached house. You will need to have the minimum ridge height and stay within local planning regulations and have Party Wall Agreements with your neighbours. These state what both parties are willing to have done on a shared wall.

What are the regulations for loft conversions?

You will need to meet a variety of regulations, including building control regulations, planning permission or permitted development restrictions and fire regulations. Your surveyor will be able to guide you through all the necessary regulations, including if your build fits within permitted development.

Do you need permission to have a loft conversion?

You may need planning permission for a loft conversion on your property, depending on if your project falls outside of permitted development regulations. These can be found on your local building authority website, primarily focused on the size and height of your loft conversion.

can all houses have a loft conversion

No, most houses can have a loft conversion however if the ridge is too low, or if there is not enough space in the roof, sometimes it is not possible. It also depends if you live within a conservation area, heritage zone or in a grade listed building.