A loft conversion is something most of us dream about doing because it allows us to use the space we already have, without the expense and long wait for planning permission. A loft conversion is quick, affordable and reduces the need to move home. Not only does it add considerable value to a house but offers a habitable room when you need it most. So if you’ve found yourself asking ‘is my loft convertible?’ read below to find out the simple requirements needed for your dream room to unfold.

Minimum height

To ensure that a loft conversion is accessible, the loft must reach 2.4 metres in height. Also if you have trusses, they can be removed to allow for more space and extra height.

If you loft doesn’t meet the minimum height requirement, there is another way around it – this is called a ‘loft lift’. This process raises the height of the loft and enables a home to have the space it needs for a conversion.

Building Regulations/Planning Permission

Before carrying out a loft conversion, it’s a must to get Buildings Regulation approval, however this is quite different to planning permission.

• Building Regulations: a surveyor will review the work being carried out and they will hand you a certificate once it’s complete, this is to acknowledge and prove that the work meets all important building regulations.

• Planning Permission: is not usually required, but it will be if you have to either extend or alter the roof.  

Insulation

To make your loft useable, it must be insulated properly and this can be done two ways with either cold roof insulation or warm roof insulation.

Water tank

If you already have a water tank in your loft then you need not worry, this can be repositioned by an experienced plumber, so you can make the most of your conversion.

Dormer windows

It’s very common for loft conversions to feature a dormer window, this is because they give homeowners the height that’s needed and easy access to the loft. Adding a window will also encourage light into your conversion, naturally opening up the room and making it look bigger. These windows are idyllic for sloping roofs as they work with limited space, rather than against it. Dormer windows are in fact required in some cases but in others you can have your choice of Velux windows instead.

If you’re looking to convert your attic, come to Kingsmead Conversions. With a wealth of experience and a friendly, dedicated team we’re here to offer a fully managed service that includes design, planning permission and a full consultation to ensure you have a say, the whole way through. Based in Milton Keynes, we cover a number of locations extending to: Bedford, Oxford, High Wycombe, Watford, Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, Harpenden and Luton. So if you’re within this areas, please give us a call today and let’s get the ball rolling.