Mistakes to avoid with a loft conversion

22 Feb Mistakes to avoid with a loft conversion

1. Failure to check your head height

It is a grave mistake to skip this important step and not check the headroom in your loft.

A minimum of 2.2m should be sufficient, but a comfortable 2.4m would be more practical. You’ll need 2.8m after the floor is installed, the insulation added and the finish on the floor.

If you want to know if your loft can be converted, measure the distance from the highest point (usually under the centre ridge wood) to the height of the floor joist below.

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When calculating the amount of headroom you need, remember to include your new loft conversion’s floor height as well as what you plan to use it for.

2. Take Planning Permission for Granted

Do not assume that a loft conversion is covered by allowed development. This is a big no-no.

While it’s true that most loft conversions do not require planning permission, simple rooflight conversions and rear-dormer conversions are often included in this category, hip-to-gable conversions and those that change the façade of the building such as large module loft conversions may require that you apply for permission. If your house is listed or you reside in a designated area, such as a Conservation Area, then planning permission may be required.

3. Failure to adhere to Building Regulations

Building regulations may seem tedious, but consider this: Would you risk creating an unsafe space at the top of your home? Didn’t think so.

A specialist loft conversion company or builder, as well as an architect, should be able provide you with this information. For Loft Conversions Bristol, visit www.caineslofts.co.uk/loft-conversions-bristol/

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Loft conversion building regulations are mainly concerned with windows, fire regulation and electrical systems, as well as wall and floor construction. Loft conversions will always require building regulation approval.