To carry out a loft conversion that involves any changes to the roof’s exterior, you are required to submit an application for full planning permission. In case your flat is a listed building or is part of one, obtaining listed building consent for the loft conversion is necessary.
When you embark on the journey of planning your first ever loft conversion project, you may be stumped for where to start your research. Before you start compiling paint shades for your newly envisioned bedroom however, it is important to consider whether your new loft conversion project will be approved, as well as the type of planning permission you will be seeking to gain. Thankfully, to help you through this daunting process, we’ve compiled a handy guide of everything you should consider.
There are many different types of loft conversions to choose from. Our Simply Loft advisors are on hand to visit your home, measure up and provide you with advice on what options may be feasible. If you need further information on the different types of loft conversions, then our helpful guide may be a good starting point.


With planning permission, you are asking the council if your proposed scheme of works is acceptable. It is open to rejection by them and/or your neighbours and will have to follow the local development plan. With permitted development, you are asking the council to simply confirm that your scheme fits within the permitted development criteria.

How quickly can building start on a property?
Without having to follow the planning permission route, it usually takes around 2 – 4 weeks to start the construction phase. This also depends on whether you have party wall agreements in place (if needed) and all structural calculations and plans to hand.
If your property requires planning permission, then it will roughly take anywhere from 8 – 12 weeks before we are able to commence any building work, again provided all necessary paperwork is in place beforehand.

Get in touch today
If you’ve been considering a loft conversion for a while now, why not get in touch with our friendly team on 0203 285 7364 to arrange a free site survey. Our Simply Loft advisors will be able to help guide you on any restrictions or concerns when they visit your property.













