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?

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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!