Loft Conversion Planning Permission

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.

loft conversion planning permission london

Will I need planning permission or permitted development for my loft conversion?
On most occasions with loft conversions, Simply Loft can usually carry out the construction phase under permitted development, which does not require planning permission. The exception to this is loft conversions to flats and properties in conservation areas or listed.  Certain boroughs in London and the West Midlands can be more stringent with planning permission than others.  Unsure?  Speak to a member of the Simply Loft team to find out more or speak to your local planning department.

loft conversion planning permission

What is the difference between permitted development and planning permission?
Permitted Development Rights act as a relaxed version of planning that allows homeowners to develop their properties quickly without having to make an actual application, provided the parameters of the rights are met. Loft conversions that exceed permitted development requirements, which are 40 cubic meters for a loft on a terraced road and 50 cubic meters on a semi-detached or detached property usually have to go through planning permission.

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.

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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.

loft conversion planning permission

What is a party wall agreement?
A party wall agreement is required if your home has a wall that is connected to another property on either side. Each neighbour must be informed of and approve the proposed works using a party wall notice form at least two calendar months before the intended start of the build. The party wall agreement draws up an agreement between you and your neighbour on what needs to happen if there is a problem. Simply Loft can advise you on this process and if necessary, put you in touch with one of our certified party wall surveyors.

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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