Loft conversions have the potential to add up to 20% to a property’s value, but it needs to be carried out logically from the outset. Therefore, before any work commences, you need to understand building regulations and put a detailed plan in place, which will help reduce any unforeseen delays.

Is Planning Permission Required?

When you’re carrying out any work on your home, you need to understand any regulations that may prevent you, including the need for planning permission. Fortunately, loft conversions fall under permitted development, meaning you won’t need to apply for planning permission. However, you should make sure that you read up on permitted development, as there may be certain restrictions.

Professionals to Include

Loft conversions are expensive and complex, meaning you’ll likely need support from your local planning department and will definitely require a sign-off regarding building regulations. You can carry out elements of the installation DIY style, but it’s recommended to hire the help of a contractor and structural engineer. After all, any changes you make to your loft will impact the rest of your home, and any errors will be expensive to recover.

Determining the Purpose

After establishing that your home is suitable for the loft conversion, it’s time to start putting a plan together. The first step in this process is deciding on a purpose for the space, as this will help steer the entire design process. Will you be adding a bedroom? Will it have an ensuite bathroom? Will it be used by adults or children? Will it be a place to escape the chaos of the house?

A Matter of Light

Asking this type of question will help you decide on the type of storage space you’ll need, what lighting provisions you require, and what style of door you’ll be using. For example, if you’re creating a place to relax, careful consideration for which types of roof windows to use will help to optimise the amount of sun the room will get.

Installing pitched roof windows from a high-quality roof window outlet is a great choice for a loft conversion. If the angle of your roof is facing the east, your home will capture the sun from the early hours of the day.

Getting Covered

While you’re converting your loft, you’re opening up your home to potential damage, which is something your insurance company will want to know. Before you start any development, get in touch with your provider to ensure you have appropriate coverage. In some cases, you will need to take out a more extensive plan, even if it only covers the duration of the work. As well as covering you for potential damage, your insurance policy will likely change upon completion. After all, you will be paying to cover a home with a larger surface area.

Loft conversions boost a home’s value but they’re also expensive projects to tackle, which can make getting started feel overwhelming. The first step with any loft conversion is finding out whether it’s doable, and then you need to consult with various experts to put a plan in place.