FAQ

What are the Building Regulations for loft conversions?

What are the Building Regulations for loft conversions?

Is building regulations approval needed for a loft conversion?

  • the structural strength of the new floor is sufficient.
  • the stability of the structure (including the existing roof) is not endangered.
  • safe escape from fire.
  • safely designed stairs to the new floor.

Do I need drawings for a loft conversion?

Architectural drawings aren’t a requirement for all loft conversions, but for some they will be essential. If you are undertaking these types of loft conversions… We recommend getting an architect on board. Alongside this, these loft conversion types require a greater cash investment.

Do you need planning permission and building regulations for a loft conversion?

Most loft conversions can be carried out without planning permission, but you’ll still need to satisfy building regulations.

Do you need Neighbours permission for loft conversion?

You don’t need permission from your neighbour for your loft conversion, but you may need to have a Party Wall Agreement if you’re converting a loft in a terraced or semi-detached property.

How much does it cost for an architect to draw up plans for a loft conversion?

Loft conversion costs in London are £40,000 to £70,000 on average excluding VAT and fees. The costs will vary depending on the size and complexities of the conversion.

Can I do a loft conversion without building regs?

Sellers often create a new bedroom out of a loft conversion with a view to add value to the property and to offer more living space. However, the seller and their estate agent cannot market the loft conversion as a bedroom if it does not have a building regulations completion certificate.

Do you need a structural engineer for a loft conversion?

Roof trusses are complex pieces of engineering and they should not be altered without the advice of a structural engineer. However, beams are often required to provide support to the new floor structure and the existing purlins. A Structural Engineer’s design will be required for all but the simplest conversions.

Are loft conversion worth the money?

Recent research carried out by the Nationwide Building Society has shown that by converting a loft space, your house value can increase by as much as 20%. As well as creating the extra space and adding value, a loft conversion can even make your home more energy efficient.

Which is the cheapest way to convert a loft?

Internal loft conversions are usually the cheapest and require minimum building intervention. However, dormer loft conversions are the most common type of loft conversions because of the additional space they can provide with relatively simple building works.

Can you get a letter of regularisation for a loft?

NB You cannot get a Letter of Regularisation for unauthorised building works completed before 11 November 1985 The Building Act 1984 (which came into force 11 November 1985) set out certain standards for loft conversions which were standardised more recently into the Building Regulations in 2010 (and since amended).

What are the regulations for converting an attic to a loft?

Building regulations approval is required to convert a loft or attic into a liveable space. The regulations address matters such as whether: the structural strength of the new floor is sufficient the stability of the structure (including the existing roof) is not endangered

When did the law on loft conversions come into force?

As a buyer, you can bargain with the vendor to share or even bear all of the costs involved. The Building Act 1984 (which came into force 11 November 1985) set out certain standards for loft conversions which were standardised more recently into the Building Regulations in 2010 (and since amended).

What are the building regulations for loft conversions?

Is building regulations approval needed for a loft conversion?

  • the structural strength of the new floor is sufficient.
  • the stability of the structure (including the existing roof) is not endangered.
  • safe escape from fire.
  • safely designed stairs to the new floor.

What are the regulations for loft insulation?

The Government say that you cut your energy bill by up to 20% through effectively insulating your loft. The recommended depth for loft insulation is 270 millimetres for glass wool, 250 millimetres for rock wool or 220 millimetres for cellulose.

Does loft storage need building regulations?

There is generally no need for planning permission when fitting a roof window, installing a loft ladder, fitting loft insulation or boarding a loft for storage. However you cannot use your loft as a room for ‘general use’ without Building Regulations (and Planning Permission may also be required).

Can you search for building regulations?

No, plans deposited with a local authority under the Building Regulations are not documents which the public are entitled to inspect under the Local Government Act 1972. However, with the owners written authorisation you may be able to view the plans.

What is the minimum ceiling height for a loft conversion?

2.2m
Measure the head height. The minimum height you need for a loft conversion is 2.2m, and you can easily measure this yourself. Take a tape measure and run it from the floor to the ceiling at the tallest part of the room. If it’s 2.2m or more, your loft should be tall enough to convert.

Should I remove old loft insulation before laying new?

Many homes have some existing insulation, but it may not be very effective. The good news is that there’s no need to remove any existing loft floor insulation. Just add one or more new layers on top of it to reach the recommended amount.

How many years does loft insulation last?

Insulating your loft, attic or flat roof is an effective way to reduce heat loss and reduce your heating bills. Installed correctly, loft insulation should pay for itself many times over in its 40-year lifetime.

Can I turn my attic into a storage place?

It will only lead to condensation. While attics can be turned into makeshift storage units, most of them are not suited for large, heavy objects such as furniture or temperature-sensitive items like electronics or documents.

Do you need permission to board a loft?

You can board out your loft without Building Regulation approval but laying or fitting loft flooring in the loft or attic must only be done to store light items, such as empty suitcases.

Can I draw my own plans for building regs?

You have to apply for building regs before you start building and you can do one of the following. A building notice can be submitted by your builder but does not involve any working/detailed drawings. The other alternative is to have an architectural technician to submit drawings under a full plan application.

Do you need building regs after 10 years?

Despite the fact that there is no time limit on the local authority’s right to apply for an injunction, it is generally accepted that if 10 years or more have passed since the work was carried out then there is no serious risk of action fro breach of building regulations being taken.