Do you need planning permission in the uk for a loft conversion?

Question

Do you need planning permission in the uk for a loft conversion?

Answer 1

Only if you alter the outside appearance of the house, for example putting a dormer window in the loft.

You can get away with putting a Velux type window in without permission by claiming, (If challeged) that you were just replacing an attick window.

Answer 2

If the roof is extended outwards or altered, then yes.

Answer 3

I would say not if you were just going to fit out the roof space as it is I.e just board the interior. If however you made any other modifications large or small you would have to, something as simple as putting in a roof window which may allow you to see over a neighbours property would mean that you would have to obtain planning permission.

The other thing to be aware of these days. Even if you just opt for boarding the loft space as it is, you would have to get in a surveyor for building reg purposes as he has to sign off that the works have be done correctly, with the correct materials and are safe. If you don't, when you come to sell the property you may be asked to put back the house as it was before modification and if someone was buying the property because of the loft conversion you may lose the sale.

Sorry to waffle on but I hope this helps.

Answer 4

you need planning permission for everything these days. get it anyway then theres no problem. i know someone who pulled a wall down without permission, he had to put it back. better to be safe than sorry

Answer 5

when you do a loft conversion ..you are changing your house into a 3 storey building ..then you will need to modify doors to fire checks ..you will need to fit proper joist and a proper staircase and both existing and new will have to be fireproofed ...there's a lot more to it than most people think and if you don't do it properly then you will never be able to sell it later ..and yes you need both planning and building regs

Answer 6

only if you are putting a roof window in , or anything that effects the exterior look

Answer 7

If the new roof line does not extend beyond the gutter or higher than the existing roof then you do not need planning permission unless it is a listed building.

However, you will need to satisfy building and fire regulations if you intend to make it a living space.

Not all lofts can be converted as it depends on whether the trusses can be removed. Modern houses are usually built in such a way that the roof trusses cannot be touched.

You will need new joists, possibly RSJ beams, sufficient height to be able to stand, electrical connections by a professional, 30 min fire proof doors, a staircase etc etc.

Get a professional firm who can provide examples of their work.

Answer 8

Yes most definitely.

Answer 9

It depends which borough you live in.Find out from your local authority.A letter of legality may be all that is required and building regs after that.

Answer 10

http://www.above-it-all.co.uk/house_buil...

Answer 11

yes and its a pain i wanted mine to be maid into a play room for the older kids but just becouse i wanted a window in thay wanted to make such a big deal its all money money

Answer 12

You most certainly do.