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Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion in London?

Converting your loft into a space you can use is an excellent way to increase the value of your home, create additional living space, and utilize potentially valuable underused space in your home. In London, with housing prices being so expensive, a loft conversion can offer a cost-effective way to add value to your home without the need to move. However, you might be wondering if you need planning permission for a loft conversion in London and what the process entails. In this blog post, we will dive into all you need to know about planning permission for a loft conversion in London.

In London, you can convert your loft using permitted development (PD) rights in most cases. PD rights are a set of rules that allow certain types of development without the need for formal planning permission.

Gaining Planning Permission in London

However, there are some limits and conditions to PD rights, which are different for different types of conversions.

If your loft conversion fits within the Council’s criteria as per Section 7 of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (GPDO), it is considered a ‘permitted development,’ and you will not require planning permission. In general, you can convert your loft into a living space under PD rights if your property is not a listed building, you have not surpassed your property’s maximum volume allowance, and you haven’t extended the roof space outside the existing roof slope.

If your proposed loft conversion falls outside the limitations of PD rights or you are not sure whether it meets the criteria, you may need to apply for planning permission. It’s worth noting that it usually takes up to eight weeks to receive planning permission. Suppose you’re not sure if you need planning permission. In that case, it’s worth seeking advice from professionals such as structural engineers, architects, and planning consultants who can assess your property and identify whether you require planning permission or not.

Get Guidance from Loft Life

You embark on a loft conversion in London, it’s essential to know what the planning process entails if you require planning permission. You will need to pay an application fee, and it’s worth noting that these fees are higher in London than in other parts of the country because of London’s unique planning challenges. The council will consider factors such as the design of the proposed conversion, the impact on the surrounding area, and the effects on the environment before granting planning permission.

You may also need to consider other things like obtaining building regulations approval, which is a separate process entirely, and we’ll address this in one of our future blog posts. Additionally, you may need to obtain party wall agreements with neighbours adjoining a shared wall or walls. In summary, the process of getting planning permission can be time-consuming, but with the right guidance, it is entirely achievable.

Contact Loft Life Today

We hope we’ve been able to give you a comprehensive guide to planning permission for a loft conversion in London. The key thing to remember is that most loft conversions in London can be started with permitted development rights. However, if you are unsure, it’s always best to seek advice from a professional. Converting your loft can provide additional space for you and your family, adding significant value to your home. With careful planning, you can move to a less extensive property to make use of such space.

How Much Does a Loft Conversion Cost in London

If you are thinking about expanding your living space, a loft conversion could be the perfect solution for you. Not only does this type of home renovation add valuable space to your property, but it can also increase its value significantly. However, before you embark on this project, you’re probably wondering how much a loft conversion will cost? In this blog post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the cost of a loft conversion in London.

1. Types of loft conversions
The cost of your loft conversion will depend on the type of renovation you want to undergo. There are several types of loft conversions, including dormer, mansard, hip to gable, and roof light. Dormer conversions typically cost less than other types of loft conversions because they require less structural work and materials. On the other hand, mansard conversions are the most expensive due to the complex and time-consuming nature of the renovation.

2. Size of the loft conversion
The size of the loft conversion also plays a significant role in determining the cost. Naturally, larger conversions require more materials, longer labor hours, and are therefore more expensive. For example, a small loft conversion that only requires a roof light will be cheaper than a full mansard conversion that occupies the entire roof space.

3. Building regulations
Complying with the local building regulations is a crucial part of loft conversion projects. While building regulations are in place to ensure the safety and welfare of those living in the property, this also means that they can add to the cost. Building regulations dictate the standards of construction, including the insulation required, ventilation, fire safety, and electrical systems, all of which require specifications and certification.

4. Additional costs
Apart from the cost of material, labor, and regulatory compliance, you may also have to factor in additional costs such as architects’ fees, planning permission, structural calculations access equipment, and project management fees, which can mount up quickly. Additionally, you may also need to hire a contractor to remove any asbestos present in the building, which may further increase your costs.

5. The average cost of a loft conversion
The cost of a loft conversion in London can vary widely, depending on all the factors mentioned above. Generally, you should expect to pay anywhere between £20,000 to £60,000 for a complete loft conversion. However, if a specific conversion requires more intricate and complex requirements, this cost could be higher. An architect or loft conversion specialist can provide you with a more accurate estimate once they have assessed your property’s specific needs.

Loft conversions can be an excellent investment for homeowners looking to increase their living space and add value to their property. However, it’s essential to have an understanding of the costs involved in the project before you begin. By considering the size of the conversion, the type of conversion, building regulations, and additional costs, you will be able to get a rough estimate of the total cost involved. It’s always advisable to consult with a professional before starting any renovation project to ensure that the work will comply with the standards and requirements prescribed by the local building regulations.

Thank you reading our article ‘How much is a Loft Conversion in London’. Hope you found it helpful and interesting. For more information, like and follow our instagram and facebook page. Please feel free to contact a member of our team on 0800 028 0099.

Best Home Renovation Ideas for Your Old Property

Are you thinking about renovating your old house?. To get the best home renovation ideas for your old property, keep reading below:

Install A Skylight

Skylights are attractive, and they can make your house more aesthetic. Installing a skylight in lofts are standard. However, you can also install skylights in your bedroom or studio when you are planning on renovating your old house.

Loft conversions

Many old houses have an unused attic that can be converted into a beautiful living space or loft conversion. These types of loft conversions can add valuable space to your home. They look beautiful and usable. Although loft conversions often require some structural work, you can contact a loft conversion company in South West London to make you job more manageable.

Build Shelves

Are you having trouble with enough spaces? Then it’s the best idea to create more shelves when you are renovating your old house and loft. To create more spaces, have shelving units built in your loft for added space and storage to make the most of every inch of space.

Choose a service provider that has been trading for several years Loft Life in South West London is the company for you for designing and creating loft conversions . For more details, kindly contact them.

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Considering A Loft Conversion? Few Vital Design Ideas For You

If you are planning to sell your house, make it more desirable in the property market by converting the loft. You will get a new room without moving home. An extra bathroom or bedroom can increase your property’s value by almost 20%. Since a loft conversion has so much to offer, make sure you choose the right company offering the service. Their experts will visit your house and let you know whether your loft is suitable for conversion. They will measure the loft before suggesting a few design ideas. Even if you are willing to create a masterpiece, there will be endless possibilities.

Importance Of The Loft Conversion Design

If you are willing to create a beautiful and functional loft room, the first thing you should consider is its design. Craft a design-based plan and you will have complete control over its designing elements. Three basic designs generally used in loft conversions in South London are, ü Skylight – Designing the skylight of your loft is quite easy and affordable as you don’t have to make any structural changes in the roofline. ü Dormer – If you are willing to add more space to your loft conversion, design a mid-range dormer conversion. Make the conversion towards the rear of your property or its sides. ü Mansard – The Mansard loft conversion is equally popular as it can make a loft more spacious and aesthetically pleasing. Design a vertical roof and you can maximise the available space.

Want To Design The Best Loft Conversion In Lewisham? 3 Points To Consider

Space

A unique feature of a loft room is that they are not completely square like the other rooms in your house. Be practical when decorating your loft conversions in London and stay aware of the space. Consider the nooks, angles and crannies of the room before buying suitable furniture and fittings. If your budget permits, buy pint-sized furniture and bespoke shelves with a minimalist look and vertical designs.

Natural Light

Not only will a room look warm and stunning if you allow more natural light to enter but will also help in reducing your energy bills. Include skylights when designing your loft conversions in Lewisham and natural light can enter the loft room with ease. Open the skylights during summer months and the room will become airy. Keep them closed during winter and the room will stay warm.

Colour

Approach an experienced loft conversion company and they will share numerous colour options which can give your loft room a splash of colour. Though white is the most preferred choice when it comes to lighting up a room, other colours are also quite popular. Lighter shades will make the room look warm and large. You can complete the room decor with soft furnishing in deeper shades or warm woods. These being said, it’s time you consider the points stated above and get in touch with a renowned loft conversion company if you want to design the best loft room.

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How to Make the Best of Your Loft Conversion with the Right Styling

Converting your loft can add value to your home. There are so many ways you can convert your loft into a cosy bedroom, a library, an office or a welcoming guest bedroom. You can fit all your imagination with a budget if you choose a loft conversion specialist in London. A loft conversion company in London can handle the basic construction and structure, but with some smart styling tips up your sleeve, you can elevate the looks and the vibe of your loft. Here are a few pointers to help you in styling your loft conversion.

Choose the right colours: White, cream, very light grey and pastels are popular colour options during loft conversions in South London. These reflect light and make the small room look more spacious and open as opposed to dark, clumsy places. Break the monotony, add a splash of colour to single walls or put up a fun wallpaper to bring attention or focus on a beautiful spot.
Play with textures to add depth to the room. A warm, fuzzy rug, thick carpets, panelled floors or walls are some of the ways to enhance the aesthetic of the room and not leave it dull and unattractive. It can make a world of difference on a cold winter morning.

Experiment with lighting : It is often seen during loft conversions in South London, and lighting is not paid much attention to as lofts have plenty of natural sunlight coming in through the windows or balcony. But, there are a lot of high angles and dark corners that are left out which can be brought out by subtle roof lights or wall lamps. A great way to bring in some dimension to lighting will be if you install lights that can be dimmed.

Customise your furniture : Standard or big chunks of furniture are tough to fit in small, angular lofts. The best way to furnish your loft will be by planning the furniture at the design stage. Customising your furniture into smaller, interestingly shaped pieces can help you solve your fitting issues.

Include storage spaces: Converted loft spaces are the best places to inculcate some high storage units. The slanted roofs fit very stylish cupboards, and small shelving units can be functional bookshelves. You can also add storage spaces in furniture. An ottoman underneath a window or a small nightstand doubled as a storage box will provide an extra edge to the overall look of the room.

These tips are equally useful for small, big or angled lofts if you can adjust according to the proportions. You can also get an entirely bespoke loft conversion by Loft Life London, which is one of the best loft conversion companies in London. You can trust them with quality and experience as they are around for more than 25 years in the industry and are deemed to be loft conversion specialists in London, with the expertise they bring to your home.

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Is Planning Permission Needed When Choosing a Loft Conversion?

Do you wish to make transformational home improvements anytime soon? Opting for high-end loft conversions in South London is the key to adding an excellent dimension to your house. Converting your attic into a new habitable space can enhance the appeal as well increase the value of your house.

Wondering if you need planning permission or building regulations approval? Read on.

For most loft or attic conversions, seeking planning permission isn’t required. This is because they usually fall under permitted development rights. However, you need permission when altering or extending the roof space, and it exceeds the specified conditions and limits. Additionally, you’ll have to follow strict building regulations to ensure your work is done safely. But, how do you ensure your loft conversion meets the essential criteria?

Here’s all you need to know about planning permission.

When Do Bespoke Loft Conversions In South London Fall Under Permitted Development?

Permitted development covers your new loft conversion work only if-

The loft space should not exceed 40 cubic metres for a terraced house.
The attic space should not exceed 50 cubic meters in a semi-detachedor detached houses.
The extension does not exceed the highest part of your existing roof slope
The conversion plan does not include any balcony, veranda or anything of this nature
The roof extension cannot overhang the wall or roof of the house
Any materials used are similar or same aswhat’s already used on your house’s exterior
Your house isn’t located in designated areas. These include national parks, conservation areas, areas of exceptional natural beauty and World Heritage Sites.
Side-facing windows should be obscure-glazed and at least 1.7 m above the ground

How Long Does It Take To Seek Planning Permission?

Be it a period property or a modern house, seeking planning permission is a vital aspect of loft conversions. Your local planning authority should make a decision on your planning application as quickly as possible. For straightforward applications, the local planning authorities should not take more than eight weeks to make a decision. On the other hand, they should not take more than thirteen weeks for specifically complex or large applications.

Loft Conversions In Bromley: Building Regulations Approval

What building regulations you need depends on the type of extension you are planning for your property. These include-

Creating A Habitable Space

Do you wish to convert your attic into a liveable space? If you want to use it as a normal part of your house, seeking building regulations approval is essential. Typically, full conversions need several alterations, which might affect the building’s original structural integrity. Following building regulations can ensure neither the occupants nor the building is at risk.

Creating A Space For Storage

If you wish to convert your attic into storage space, seeking building regulations approval might be needed. Usually, the timber joists which act as the floor of your loft isn’t designed for supporting significant weight. Building regulations approval is required for ensuring safety.
Quickly seek planning permission and building regulations approval for your extension. Time to approach the best loft conversion company in London!

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Choose Bespoke Loft Conversions & Make Your Attic Kid-Friendly

Are you a soon-to-be parent? Or, do you have growing teenagers in your family who needs a room to themselves? If so, choosing a loft conversions in South London can be a good choice for home improvement. Are you wondering how to ensure your attic conversion is child-friendly? Check out the guide below.

Many homes throughout the UK are going for loft conversions and this makes complete sense. Hiring loft specialists is the ideal way to get additional space while avoiding the stress of house relocation. Also, it’s cheaper to convert the attic of your house into a valuable space instead of moving into a new home. But, just like all the other rooms in your house, you need to consider the safety of your children.
Here’s how you can make your attic conversion kid-friendly.

Loft Conversions In South London: 4 Tips To Make Your Loft Child-Friendly

Stairs

No attic conversion is complete without a staircase. Stairs are essential for accessibility reasons. But, they pose a certain kind of risk to kids who aren’t steady on their feet. Since they are often susceptible to occasional tumble, you need to be careful. Consider putting stair-gates at the top and bottom of your new staircase. Keep in mind this is an essential consideration.

Furniture

An amazing aspect of choosing a bespoke loft conversions in Hither Green is deciding on the decor of your room. And, when you are converting the loft for your children, ensure it has some influence over your choices. Avoid furnishings which are weak or are easy to knock over since this can cause injury to your child. You should even be wary of foldable furnishings since over enthusiastic use by children can lead to its collapse.

Windows

It is vital to bring light to your new space and attic, conversions are incomplete without skylights. To make your loft room kid-friendly, try to place these windows out of the reach of children. Make sure no furniture is positioned below which a child can use as a climbing frame. You should also watch out for cords hanging from blinds since they can be hazardous for children. If possible, try and select cordless blinds.

Soundproofing

Do you intend to use your loft room as a bedroom or playroom for your child? The chances are that it won’t be a quiet room. So, it’s worth investigating how you can soundproof your attic conversion. Use tricks like hanging thick curtains or laying down thick carpets to soundproof your attic space.
Whether you live in a period property or a contemporary house, loft conversion specialists in London can help. So what are you still thinking of? Approach the specialists and make your attic conversion child-friendly

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Dormer Loft Conversion: All You Need To Know Before Getting Started

Do you wish to make your home more spacious and comfortable? Are you considering converting your attic space? Choosing a dormer loft conversion can be a wise home improvement decision. Whether you need additional space or want to increase your home’s value, dormer conversions are the ideal choice.

Wondering what dormer lofts are all about? Check out the handy guide below.
Over the recent years, there has been an increase, in people converting lofts. Improving and not relocating is preferred by most homeowners nowadays. And, a dormer is one of the most favoured ways of converting an attic or loft space. Hiring loft specialists can help you get the ideal space without enduring the costly process of moving to a new house.

Keep reading to learn all you need to know about having a dormer loft.

Style Options To Choose From

When getting a dormer attic conversion, you can choose from numerous styles. These include-

L-shaped dormer
Flat roofed dormer
Dog-house dormer
Shed dormer

Is Your House Suitable?

Any residential property with a loft space and pitched roof can get a dormer conversion. However, if you have flat roofs, you shouldn’t consider getting a dormer loft. Wondering why? Well, this is because there will be no pitch from which you will be able to build-out.

How Much Does A Dormer Attic Conversion Cost?

There are numerous factors on which the cost, of a dormer lofts may depend. Usually, the cost of undergoing such a conversion varies from one house to another. It depends on-

where you live
the size of the attic
complexity of your conversion
the quality of product finish you want
what you want to utilise the space for

How Long Does It Take To Convert The Attic?

Let’s assume everything goes according to plan and you have decided to have a standard attic conversion. Converting your dormer loft will then take approximately 4 to 6 weeks for the structure. You should allow another 2 to 4 weeks for the decor and finishing. When you get your loft converted by the best loft conversion company in London, Loft Life, you can be assured of a proffesional job at competive rates.

Is Planning Permission Required?

An excellent benefit of dormer conversions is that it comes within the permitted development rights. However, you will not be qualified for permitted development if-

You live in a conservation area or a listed building.
Your dormer’s height exceeds that of the original roof.
The neighbours are affected due to overshadowing or overlooking.
Materials used in the conversion are out of quality with the rest of your house
You have a balcony in the dormer

So what are you still thinking about? Approach reliable specialists for dormer loft conversions in London and get started!

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Know The Types Of Loft Conversions Before Choosing One

If you are planning a home renovation, choose a loft conversion and add space to your property quickly. It is considered to be a more cost-effective option than moving home as you can bring a new lease of life to your current property. You can either use the new room as a storage solution or a bedroom. It can extend the potential of your house and enhance its resale value.

If you are willing to reap all the benefits offered by a loft conversion, hire experienced professionals providing the service and choose the right type of loft conversion. Professionals consider the line and shape of your existing roof, your permitted development rights and your budget before drawing the best plan for your loft room.

3 Primary Types Of Loft Conversions You Can Choose From

Dormer Loft Conversion

Though the flat roof dormer is quite simple, it is a very popular variety of loft conversion. The extension develops vertically from the slope of the existing roof. This creates a box-shaped structure. The primary advantage of choosing a dormer loft conversion is that no dramatic changes are necessary. You can even install conventional windows for extra protection and added style. Few benefits of choosing a dormer loft conversion are; it can add headroom even in a cramped attic, you will get a large amount of internal space, the walls are straight and the ceilings flat, a cost-effective option, suitable for almost all house styles, enjoy good light and ventilation.

Mansard Loft Conversion

The party wall is the one which you share with your neighbours. This wall has to be raised if you are planning to construct a mansard loft conversion. The unique features of this loft conversion are the flat roof and the gently inward sloping outer wall. Though you can opt for this type of conversion for any property, loft conversion specialists in London feel that they are more suitable for terraced houses. Few benefits offered by mansard loft conversion are they are more aesthetically pleasing than the other loft conversion varieties, can blend easily with your existing property, provide more headroom and allow light to enter your loft easily.

Hip To Gable Loft Conversion

This loft conversion variety is more suitable for detached and end of terrace homes. A vertical wall is created by straightening the inwardly slanted end roof. Though the change is quite small, it can bring a drastic change to the interior living space. This has made hip to gable loft conversion a very popular choice nowadays. Few benefits of choosing this loft conversion variety are they are aesthetically pleasing and can blend with your existing home, you can maximise the space by combining it with the rear dormer loft and are suitable for all types of bungalows.
Since you are now aware of the common types of loft conversion, it’s time you choose one according to your requirements and hire a loft conversion specialist.

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Maximise Light And Space With These Latest Loft Conversion Ideas

A well-designed loft conversion is the one whose extra space has been cleverly thought-out. Few things loft conversion specialists consider before crafting a suitable design are the position of the windows, the energy-efficiency of the loft room, your budget and the configuration of the room. Irrespective of the type of loft conversion you are going for, your focus should be on maximising light and space by using some design tricks. Just make sure the design abides by the building regulations and you have taken the necessary planning permission.

4 Latest Loft Conversion Ideas To Maximise Light And Space

Opt For Customised Storage In Odd Attic Spaces

Don’t get disheartened just because you have awkward attic space. You can easily combat it with customised storage. Experienced professionals offering loft conversions in Bromley know how to craft smart designs for old-shaped rooms with ceilings at a lower level. Though the shape of the attic can’t be changed, you can include compact and low-level furniture. You can also go for customised storage and put dressing tables and desks in the lower areas. A mezzanine level loft conversion will be a wise idea if there is sufficient head height.

Build New Stairs Over The Existing One

The easiest way to make a loft conversion feasible is by designing the room in such a way so that the pitch of the roof is more than thirty degrees and the head height is 2.2m at the highest point. If you don’t want to waste the floor space, build the new staircase over the existing staircase. It will make the stairs more space-efficient. You can also avoid compromising floor space by going for steeper and narrower staircases or spiral staircases.

Insert Rooflights

One of the main reasons why loft conversion specialists in London suggest their clients include roof lights in the loft room is it gives more floor space. The place doesn’t even feel claustrophobic and open views. Hipped roof with sloping sides can be transformed into an upright gable and add more space. Including roof lights will not only enhance the beauty of the new room but will also bring light to the centre of your home. Consider the transparency of the roofing material if you want to control the amount of light entering the room.

Convert The Roof Space Into A Cosy Room

If there are not many spare rooms in your house, try converting the roof space instead of squeezing numerous guests into one extra room. Though a bathroom and bedroom can be incorporated into any loft space, dormer lofts work the best. Ask professionals offering loft conversions in South East London to install dormer windows in sloping roof skylights and your bathroom with get adequate light and air.
Time to follow the latest loft conversion ideas stated above and maximising space and light will become easier.

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