Loft Conversion Plans

Some loft conversions can be built without needing planning permission, under what are known as “permitted development rights“, however, there are several restrictions. If your proposed plans do not meet these restrictions, then a planning application will be required.

Restrictions under permitted development rights for loft conversions include that:

• The property is not designated under Article 2(3) land. This most commonly means that it is not in a conversation area or an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB), but there are other types of land and areas where permitted development rights do not apply.
• The additional space created must not exceed 40 cubic metres for terraced houses or 50 cubic metres for detached and semi-detached houses.
• The loft conversion must not extend beyond the existing plane of the roof slope on the principal elevations that front the highway.
• The materials used must be similar in appearance to the existing house.
• No part of the loft conversion must be higher than the highest part of the existing roof.
• You cannot form balconies or verandas.
• Any side windows must be obscured and non-opening unless the parts that can be opened are more than 1.7m above the floor level in the room of the loft conversion.
• The loft conversion dormer should be set back from the hip and gables by at least 20cm.

This is not an exhaustive list, and there are other considerations as well. We would recommend reading the Planning Portals guide to Permitted Development Rights for Loft Conversions to get a good understanding of whether your proposal needs planning permission.

If your proposed loft conversion doesn’t meet these criteria then you will need to apply for planning permission.

Our advice is that even if your proposed loft conversion falls within permitted development rights, that you apply for a Lawful Development Certificate which will confirm in writing that your extension meets permitted development. This will make selling the property considerably easier later on.

A loft conversion is a great way of adding an extra room, or rooms to your property. Most commonly these are used as bedrooms or home offices, and this will add value to the property.

If you have outgrown your house, or want to add value, then a loft conversion is a great way of achieving this.

There are several options in terms of layouts for a loft conversion which will depend on the existing nature and shape of your house.

Common options are simple rear loft conversions, L-shaped loft conversions that are built over the rear outrigger, or mansard conversions.

Each option will add additional space to the property and increase its value, but professional advice should be sought on what option is best for your property with consideration to your budget, and any planning restrictions that may exist.