Getting planning permission for home improvements can be a time-consuming hassle. When it comes to loft conversions, you’ll be pleased to know that in the majority of cases you can convert the loft of your house into an extra room (or rooms) without needing planning permission.
Loft conversion
Abbey Building Services and Maintenance can advise you whether your loft is suitable for conversion and outline the options. So long as the new loft space falls within the criteria of a Permitted Development no planning permission is required. Of course, the work must still meet building regulations which ensure the conversion is completed to the correct standards to make it a safe, insulated, light and liveable space.
Is it a permitted development?
These are the general criteria for a permitted development to a house in England. It’s always advisable to check with your Local Authority.
Space
The extra roof space created must be within the maximum allowed:
- 40 cubic metres for a terraced house
- 50 cubic metres for a detached or semi-detached house
Height
The roof extension must not be higher that the height of the highest part of the original roof.
Frontage
The roof extension must not be beyond the plane of the existing roof slope at the front of the house to the street.
Materials
Materials used must be look similar to the existing property.
Windows
Any side-facing windows must be obscure-glazed and non-opening, unless the parts which can be opened are more than 1.7 metres above the floor.
Roof extensions
Apart from hip to gable extensions, roof extensions must be set back, at least 20cm from the original eaves. The roof enlargement cannot overhang the outer face of the wall of the original house.
No balconies
No verandas, balconies or platforms are allowed as permitted development.
No bats
It’s important to consider whether your loft conversion will affect bats, which are a protected species. A survey may be needed, and if bats are using the building, a licence may be necessary.
Not a listed building and no restrictions in place
There are exceptions where a loft conversion is not a Permitted Development and planning permission or other consents are required, for example, with listed buildings and houses on designated land such as within a conservation area.
Always check with your Local Planning Authority, whether permitted development rights apply.
Abbey can advise you which types of loft conversions fall within a permitted development.
Where planning permission is required Abbey can support you with this too. You can talk through your loft conversion plans with Richard Bamforth at Abbey on 07818 061505 or by email.