Thinking about a loft conversion but wondering whether planning permission is required? Perhaps you’re thinking that loft conversion planning consent will be a hassle to obtain? Or maybe you’re wondering how loft conversion building regulations will affect your attic build’s design? Whatever your query, a specialist loft conversion company can help.
One of the biggest benefits of using specialist attic conversion contractors is the fact that they’ll help to walk you through the loft conversion planning permission process. Have some questions in the meantime? Read on to find out what the process of getting planning permission for a loft conversion requires.
Is planning permission required for a loft conversion?
This is a common question: do you need planning permission for a loft conversion? The answer really depends on the works being undertaken, and any work previously undertaken within your home.
This is because a loft conversion can be classified as permitted development, assuming you haven’t used all of your permitted development rights previously, such as on an extension elsewhere in your home. There are certain criteria that your attic build must meet for permitted development, otherwise planning permission will be required.
For more detailed information, check the Gov.uk website for up to date resources before work begins.
Do all loft conversions need planning permission?
Although many loft conversions fall within permitted development rights, it’s worth noting that many loft conversions do not conform to these rules due to aspects such as an altered roof pitch.
It’s worth consulting with a loft conversion specialist, therefore, about the proposed design of your attic build and whether planning permission is required.
For example, loft conversions that are likely to require planning permission include those that:
- Extend beyond your permitted development rights.
- Alter the pitch of your roof.
- Have windows that protrude beyond the original roofline.
- Include aspects such as a Juliet balcony or a roof terrace.
- Are on properties within a Conservation Area.
It’s worth asking your chosen loft conversion contractors about your desired design at the start of the process, so that you can apply for loft conversion planning permission as soon as possible.
How long does loft conversion planning permission take?
How long it takes to receive loft conversion planning consent will differ from local authority to local authority, and you can check with your individual council or borough for up to date details.
However, as a general rule of thumb, for straightforward loft conversion planning permission, you should allow 8–13 weeks for feedback on your application.
Will my specialist contractor deal with loft conversion Building Regulations, too?
One of the benefits of using a specialist attic conversion contractor is that they will ensure the build complies with loft conversion Building Regulations, too. They will also carry out all of the contract administration and project management involved with Building Regulations, including dealing with the Building Inspector.
This will give you the peace of mind that your new loft room will not only be safe and compliant, but you’ll have all of the relevant paperwork relating to your build at the end of the project, too.
Ready to start the loft conversion planning permission process? Get in touch with Bespoke Lofts!
If you’re ready to start the loft conversion planning consent process, get in touch with Bespoke Lofts. As a specialist attic build company, we can advise on the planning permission process, and can assist with all of the paperwork involved, too.
Don’t be put off by loft conversion planning permission. Get in touch today to start the process and rest assured that you’ll be in safe hands with Bespoke Lofts.