How far can I convert my loft before requiring building regs approval?

Question

I have just moved into a house that was built in 1928. The loft hatch is tiny and I would like to put in a bigger loft hatch. I'm confident about fitting a new loft hatch but I would like to make one big enough to fit a set of spacesaver stairs for ease of access to the loft. I would then like to board out my loft and add a light up there. I will only be using it for storage but being that I am a rather fat man, the thought of clambering up a loft ladder to put boxes up there just makes it more hastle than it is worth. So my questions is can I do all this without BR approval.

Fit a bigger loft hatch.

Fit spacesver steps (see link) http://www.spiralstairs-direct.co.uk/shop/product.php?xProd=10

Board out the loft using T&G chipboard

Fit a single light.

Answer 1

If you are heavy, do not use chipboard to floor out the space.

Be sure that any space you may walk on is reinforce plywood...inch thick.

If it is for storage only, the opening needs to accommodate you and what you're carrying up.  Don't go nuts on that.

I personally, being a large woman, would rather approach my attic with a familiar ladder...certainly not circular stairs!!!

As far as light goes, I have 3 battery operated light bulbs that I got on a TV ad.  Works just fine! Final cost for the lights was $38.

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Answer 2

I can't speak for the situation outside the USA, but that is a home improvement modification that would be perfectly acceptable here without permits.

  You aren't altering the basic structure of the home, you aren't modifying any electrical or plumbing issues, and unless, it happens that neighbors might complain about trades people, I see no need to get permission, or pay for permitting.

  Give your admittance about weight (no offense) and the needed size of the opening, and that it probably will not adjust any value up or down for taxation, or even re-sale, I can't see any stumbling blocks to proceeding.

Steven Wolf

Just my two "sense"