Loft Conversion

Most new build houses are designed with at least one en-suite bedroom to attract potential buyers or investors. Again, majority of people would pay a premium for the added luxury of a private bathroom facility serving their potential bedroom. If space is limited within a bedroom where a full bathroom cannot be accommodated, a shower room / wet room can sometimes be incorporated which can be perceived as better use of space. Your loft can be converted as Permitted Development if:

1. The maximum volume added to your loft space does not exceed 50m2 for semi detached and detached properties, and 40m2 for terraced properties.
2. No elements of the extension to be higher than the highest part of the roof.
3. No extension beyond the plane of existing roof slope of the principal elevation that fronts the highway.
4. Side facing windows to be obscured glazing; any opening to be 1.7m above the finish floor level.

Under Building Regulations, if you are converting your loft on a second floor level (which is normally the case with most properties), you would be required to line the entire stair core from ground through to the second floor with 30 minutes fire rated construction. Also, you would be required to replace all standard doors and install fire doors with 30 minutes fire rating. These are only some of the items to think about when considering your loft conversion. Please note, these points do not apply if your conversion is into the loft space on first floor level only. You would not be required to follow these regulations for this particular scenario.

Please note: The above points do not apply to Listed Buildings or properties in Conservation areas. You would require the necessary consents for these types of properties where we can advise accordingly.

The cost of the loft conversion and a specific budget is one of the most important factors to consider. To get an indication of the average cost of a loft conversion for a standard 3 bedroom semi-detached property, you could expect to pay between £25,000-£35,000. This indicative costing will vary depending on a number of factors such as the type of property, location, topography of the site and specific building requirements, type of construction and many more. The estimated cost given would include all electrics and plumbing with finished walls ready for decorating and laying your new finished floor.

NADA Architects can advise on the possibilities of including the addition of a loft conversion within your home.

To discuss your loft conversion in more detail, please feel free to contact us via the enquiry form or give us a call.