Frequently Asked Questions
"Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion"
Planning permission for a loft conversion is not normally required. However, permission is required where you extend or alter the roof space and it exceeds specified limits and conditions.
A loft conversion for a house is considered to be permitted development, not requiring an application for planning permission, subject to the following limits and conditions:
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A volume of no bigger than 40 cubic metres additional roof space for terraced houses
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A volume of no bigger than 50 cubic metres additional roof space for detached and semi-detached houses
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No extension beyond the plane of the existing roof slope of the principal elevation that fronts the highway
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No extension to be higher than the highest part of the roof
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Materials to be similar in appearance to the existing house
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No verandas, balconies or raised platforms
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Side-facing windows to be obscure-glazed; any opening to be 1.7m above the floor
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Roof extensions not to be permitted development in designated areas
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Roof extensions, apart from hip to gable ones, to be set back, as far as practicable, at least 20cm from the original eaves
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The roof enlargement cannot overhang the outer face of the wall of the original house.
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Please note: Although planning permission is not always required, building regulations are required for converting a loft/attic into a liveable space.
Do I need building regulations approval for a loft conversion?
Building regulations approval is required to convert a loft or attic into a liveable space.
This section provides guidance for making alterations to the loft space of an existing house which is no more than two storeys high. Requirements for alterations to an apartment or other dwellings like maisonettes, or houses over three storeys, will be similar but may be more extensive and possibly extend to other parts of the building.
The regulations will be applied to ensure, for example:
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the structural strength of the new floor is sufficient
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the stability of the structure (including the existing roof) is not endangered
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safe escape from fire
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safely designed stairs to the new floor
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reasonable sound insulation between the conversion and the rooms below
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"How much value will a loft conversion add to my house"
A recent study done by the Nationwide building society said that on average a good loft conversion can add from 22% of the value of your house and that adding a bathroom to the loft would increase that further.
"We would like to add an extra bedroom in our loft space but the roof is too low can it be raised in any way"
Absolutely! We specialise in the raising of roofs. This gives you much more space in the loft and makes it worth converting. This is usually done on a detached house; however, although difficult, it can be done on a semi detached or terraced. You should always choose a reliable loft conversion . company to convert your home to ensure that the process is completed to the highest standards.
Do I need to move out whilst having our loft converted?
No, you will not be required to move out of your home whilst we are carrying out your loft conversion. We would ensure that the conversion didn't disrupt your home life. Furthermore, we aim to complete your loft conversion in as little time as possible.
How much does a loft conversion cost?
The price of a loft conversion will vary from home to home and will depend on what you want to achieve. Head to our enquiry form to get a pricing quote for a loft conversion on your home.
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What is a Velux loft conversion?
Velux loft conversion uses velux windows into the newly converted loft or attic to allow in extra light. The Velux roof windows are specially designed to let in maximum amounts of natural light and ventilation whenever you want it.
As fully approved Velux window installers, we can draw into the designs the perfect positioning for them in your new loft conversion.
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I've noticed you are a Northern loft conversion company, I live in the South, would you still consider converting my loft?
Yes! Absolutely. We are based in South Yorkshire but would be more than happy to travel nationwide to complete a loft conversion on your home. A lot of the initial contact is over the telephone or via email, this way we can see what you're aiming for from your loft conversion and give you an estimate price. To begin your loft conversion journey, fill out the enquiry form today or give us a call.
There is a boiler in my loft, will this cause problems when having a loft conversion?
No, not normally. A boiler can easily be moved or be boxed off with a nice cupboard. Water tanks can be a bigger problem as they are bigger and take up more space, however, we will discuss the options if you have one of these when we contact you about your loft conversion.
Where will the new staircase be fitted?
Depending on the structural properties of your home, the location of the staircase will differ. In most cases, we would aim to place the new staircase directly above the pre-existing staircase to create a more seamless flow.
I'm interested, what to do next?
If you're interested in an Elevation Lofts loft conversion, all you need to do is fill out our enquiry form and we will be in contact you at the soonest opportunity. Why not also check out our gallery to browse a range of images of previous projects and loft conversions.