Loft Conversions

There can be many factors when considering to have a loft conversion on your property. We have provided some general advice below.

If you would prefer to speak to one of our expert advisers please call us on freephone 0800 2461459 and we will be more than happy to discuss any questions you may have and offer a free no obligation quotation.

Planning:

Q. How long will planning take?
A. In most cases planning can take approximately 8 weeks in order to certify all aspects of the proposed job are accurate and correct.

Q. What about Planning Permission and Building Regulations?
A. Some loft conversions require Planning Permission and all have to adhere to Building Regulations. The quote you receive will include the preparation and submission of Plans to your local authority. We serve the appropriate notices and liaise with the authorities on your behalf.

Q. What is a Certificate of Lawfulness?
A. An LDC (Lawful Development Certificate) is a document which clearly states that all work being constructed on the owner’s house is lawful and within all building regulations. An LDC is not a mandatory requirement, however in some cases they benefit the proprietor if they should ever sell their property on. Additionally, if a planning committee enquire about any extensions or loft conversions to the house owner, this certificate will verify the lawfulness of such developments.

Construction:

Q. Where will the new stairs be fitted?
A. Depending on the structural layout of your property the location of the new staircase can differ. However, in most cases we aim to always place the new staircase directly above the pre-existing stairs to create a more seamless flow from level to level.

Q. Can you build during the winter months?
A. Yes, we are able to build loft conversions throughout the entire year. Only once the structure to the loft conversion is complete and insulated do we begin work on building the staircase down into your home.

Q. Will I need a new fuse box?
A. This depends on the condition of your current fuse box. Electrical Regulations have changed more recently and therefore your property’s electrics must comply with these regulations. If your fuse box does comply with these, and can also cope with the electrical demands of a newly built loft conversion, then no. However if your fuse box fails to meet the regulation’s demands, or will struggle to effectively power your house and loft conversion, then you will need to install a new fuse box.

Q. Will I need a new boiler?
A. This will depend on the adequacy of your current boiler. If your boiler will be able to manage the additional output of heat and hot water, then you should not need to install a new boiler. However if you have an aged boiler and or it will struggle with its new demands, then a new boiler may have to be installed.

Duration:

Q. How long will it take to convert my loft?
A. This depends upon the type and size of your conversion and the interior works you choose to have done. However, we endeavour to complete building work within 6-12 weeks.

Disruption:

Q. What sort of disruption should I expect?
A. Any disruption to the householder is kept to a minimum. This may include dust and noise, although the initial construction takes place from outside your property.

Q. Will we have to move out?
A. The householder will not have to vacate their home during the loft conversion process and can rest assured they will not have to move out.