A loft conversion, like a cellar conversion, makes the very best use of existing space within your home. Usually, a loft will have the same floor space as the upstairs part of your home and your only restrictions to conversion will be headspace and planning requirements. Here are some tips for planning your loft conversion.

Use a loft conversion specialist

The rise in house prices has meant that many people are choosing to extend the space in their current property rather than buying a new one. A loft conversion is a prime example of this and, as such conversions have become more popular, builders have emerged who specialise in this area. Using a specialist means that you can benefit from their experience and expertise. They will be able to advise on what portion of your space is usable, whether you can add a bathroom and whether you can add windows to your roof.

Consult an architect

A loft conversion will require a professional architect or surveyor to look at the loads that will be placed on the building by having the roof space in use. This is a key element when it comes to satisfying planning or building requirements. The planning department or your builder may be able to recommend an architect who will come to your property, look at your current roof space and what you want to do with it, and then draw the appropriate plans.

Get the required permissions

You don’t always need planning permission for a loft conversion, but you should always double-check with your local planning office before going ahead. Any loft conversion needs to comply with building regulations, including fire regulations, which means that it must be inspected during and after the project. Anything that doesn’t comply with the relevant regulations may have to be removed at considerable cost. It makes sense to approach the planning department with your plans before any work starts, to ensure that you are proceeding on the right basis from the very beginning.

Expect disruption

Although you don’t currently use your roof space, adding a lift conversion can be very disruptive to your daily life. It can be a long, noisy, dusty process and no matter how much care the builders take whilst in your home or how professional they are, there will be a certain amount of dirt and untidiness during the project. Contractors will need to walk through your home to get to and from the loft space, bringing tools and materials with them. Be prepared to have your house in relative turmoil for the length of the project. Don’t be unrealistic and expect everything to be perfect at the end of every day - if you asked the builders to do this, it would take up more of their time and the project would take much longer to complete.

Cost vs. Value

Although a loft conversion can be expensive, good conversions undoubtedly add value to your property. If you are considering a loft conversion, it may be worth speaking to one or two estate agents to see what the price increase would be on your property. This will give you an idea of the amount of money you will need to spend in order to remain in profit.

The first step in your project is to hire the right builder. Use www.findalocal-builder.co.uk to get a list of builders in your area, and then look at our other advice articles to see how to make sure you choose the best builder for you.