HOW TO PLAN A LOFT CONVERSION
Loft conversions are a great way to add space to your home, especially if you don’t have the outside space for an extension. They’re ideal for adding extra bedrooms or creating a spacious master suite. Loft conversions can also provide a quiet space to work or a place for teens to hang out. In fact, they can fulfil a range of needs.
But as with any major renovation work, a loft conversion requires careful planning. To help make the process less daunting, property and construction expert Thomas Goodman at MyJobQuote.co.uk plots out the steps you should take to successfully plan a loft conversion.
Consider Your Family’s Needs
First, consider what your family’s needs are and identify the current problems your home has. It could be that it doesn’t have enough bedrooms or bathrooms, or that it can’t currently accommodate multi-generational living. Or perhaps there’s a lack of dedicated space for a gym or home office. Will a loft conversion solve the immediate issues, or would an extension be more suitable?
Check Whether Your Loft Can Be Converted
Once you’re sure a loft conversion is the best answer to your space issues, you need to be sure your loft can be converted. To do this, it’s best to consult a local builder, architect or surveyor, but to give you some idea, here are a few key things you can check for:
- Roof Pitch – A steep roof pitch is a good indicator that you can convert your loft. Over 30 degrees is best.
- Head Height – The steeper the roof, the more head height you should have in your loft. To meet Building Regulations, there should be at least a 2.2m clearance from the floor joists to the roof timbers at the highest point.
- Your Neighbours – If your neighbours have a similar roof and have converted their loft, it’s a sign that you can too.
- Loft Size – Is your loft big enough? For a loft conversion to be practical, there needs to be enough usable floor space to create an extra room.
- Obstacles – Are there any obstacles in your loft, such as roof trusses and chimney breasts, which could complicate the conversion or compromise the space?
- Stairs – To access your loft safely, you’ll need to install a staircase. Is there adequate headspace in your loft and room you can steal from below to fit one?
Formulate a Realistic Budget
What savings do you have, and what money can you safely borrow? It’s essential that you work out your budget before you start putting your plans in motion. Otherwise, you could end up spending more than you can afford.
To understand how much a loft conversion costs and work out a realistic budget, consult a builder or an architect, or check an online cost guide. You’ll need to factor in the condition of your roof and the conversion type. To allow for unforeseen problems and material price rises, you’ll also need a contingency fund of around 10% on top of your budget.
Weigh Up Which Type of Conversion to Go For
Your budget may determine the type of loft conversion you go for, as they do have different cost implications. However, the type of house you have and what you’re going to use your loft for will play a part in the decision.
Roof Light/Velux
This is the simplest form of loft conversion and therefore, the most cost-effective. So, it’s a good option for creating extra bedrooms on a tight budget.
Dormer
If you’d like more of a view outside and a bit more headspace, a dormer loft conversion is worth considering. You could go with a large, flat-roofed dormer for expansive views and plenty of natural light or go with a gabled dormer to add character and kerb appeal to your home.
Mansard
A Mansard conversion is perfect if you’re looking to really maximise your loft space. It alters the slope of the roof, giving you almost vertical walls. There’s more building work involved and the costs are higher, but it gives you more layout flexibility and creates more room for furniture. Mansard loft conversions work particularly well on period terraces.
Hip-To-Gable
Hip-to-gable loft conversions extend the roof ridge out to the gable end. So, they’re a great way to increase the usable space in detached and semi-detached homes with roofs that slope in on all sides.
Consult an Architect
Although it’s possible to convert a loft without an architect, it’s not necessarily a good idea. An architect is best-placed to come up with a design that meets Building Regulations and makes best use of the space, including where to locate the stairs and how to maximise natural light. They can suggest what materials to use and advise you on how to achieve the most for your money, and prevent you from overlooking important elements. Having architectural plans will also give your builder a better idea of what you want from your conversion.
Hire a Builder
Once you have your plans sorted, it’s time to search for a builder. Look for reputable local builders who have experience in converting lofts and ask for detailed quotes. It’s best to get at least three quotes, so you can compare them properly and ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
When you’ve found your builder, take time to talk through the plans properly and make sure you’re on the same page about what you want the finished conversion to look like.
Check What Permissions and Approvals You Need
Loft conversions can be done under Permitted Development Rights. However, it’s not advisable to start any building work before checking what permissions and approvals are required.
You might need planning permission if:
- You’re extending out past the original slope of the roof at the front or beyond the ridge line.
- A balcony or terrace is being added.
- A new window is going in at the side.
- Your conversion will add more than 40m³ of space to your home.
- You live in a Conservation Area.
- Your home is Listed.
Even if you don’t need Planning Permission, you will need Building Regulations Approval for a loft that’s being converted into a liveable space. Your architect and builder will help make sure you meet all the regulations, including those relating to floor strength, soundproofing, electrics and fire safety. Before you start work, you’ll need to submit a Building Notice or, if it’s a large conversion, a Full Plans application. Again, your builder and architect can help you with this.
Talk to Your Neighbours
If you have close neighbours, it’s wise to talk to them before you start your loft conversion, as there’s likely to be some noise and disruption. Keeping them informed is the best way to keep them happy and to manage concerns.
It will also be necessary to speak to your neighbours if you share a wall. You’ll need to notify them of the work you plan to carry out and then come up with a written Party Wall Agreement. This is something else your architect can help you with if necessary.
Inform Your Home Insurance Company
It’s not just your neighbours that you need to talk to before work starts. You should also talk to your home insurance company to inform them of your plans. Not doing so could invalidate your insurance or leave you with insufficient cover.
How to Save Money on a Loft Conversion:
- Keep it Simple – Stick to a roof light conversion and minimise structural changes.
- Reuse Items Where You Can – Adding furnishings and decorative finishing touches can eat up a surprising amount of your budget. So, try to kit your loft out with furnishings you already own or source second-hand items rather than buying new.
- Get the Right Builder – The cheapest builder isn’t always the best one. Going with an experienced builder is the best way to avoid costly mistakes.
- Details to Consider
- It’s easy to overlook the small details in a loft conversion. Here’s what you should consider carefully:
- Plug Sockets – You always need more than you think.
- Lighting – Even if there’s plenty of natural light, your loft space needs well-designed electric lighting to ensure the space feels bright and airy all the time.
- Storage – Space can be compromised in a loft conversion, so make sure you factor in storage to keep it clutter-free. Built-in storage is best for compact spaces.
- Insulation – Don’t skimp on insulation; otherwise, your heating costs will be sky high.
Final Thoughts
There are more steps to getting a loft conversion off the ground than you might think. Understanding what you should be doing and when is the key to achieving your goals without any major hiccups. Hiring the right people and knowing your responsibilities will ensure everything runs smoothly.
MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR… THOMAS GOODMAN
Thomas Goodman has worked as a property and construction expert for MyJobQuote for six years and has worked in the construction industry for over twenty years. Thomas continues to work on building projects while providing expert construction and property advice to industry professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
