Loft Conversion Addington

DO I HAVE THE OPTION OF CONVERTING MY LOFT IN ADDINGTON?

My loft might be converted. is often one of the initial inquiries made by people thinking about taking this expansion option. Not all roofs can accommodate a loft conversion, and certain roof types need additional structural work or a specific kind of loft conversion to be viable. The following factors will determine how suitable your property is:

• current head height

• roof angle

• roof construction

• stumbling blocks like water tanks or chimneys

Traditional framed roof constructions are frequently the best choice for loft conversions since they allow the area to be opened up reasonably readily and affordably.

Rafters on traditional roofs run around its borders, leaving a significant amount of empty space, and are typically found in pre-1960s structures. The rafters may need to be reinforced or extra supports installed. Trussed roofs are supported by 'W' shaped rafters that run the length of the roof and the floor structure. Trussed roofs are more difficult to convert, but not impossible; the 'W' shaped rafters can be replaced with a 'A' form framework, resulting in a hollow area. This often entails inserting steel beams between load-bearing walls to support the new floor joists and rafters, as well as a steel beam at the ridge. Unvented hot water cylinders are a better option than replacing the boiler with a combi boiler, but they require a cupboard-sized area, which you must find space for and afford.

IS PLANNING CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR ADDINGTON LOFT CONVERSION?

Loft conversions may not necessarily require planning approval; in many circumstances, the construction falls under Permitted Development (PD) rules. However, your design must comply with a number of requirements (opens in new tab), the most important of which are: The property must not have previously used its Permitted Development rights to add a floor. It must not add more than 40 cubic meters of volume to the existing roof space for terraced dwellings or 50 cubic meters for all others. Under PD rights, a loft conversion should not reach the height of the existing roof. It also cannot extend beyond the present roof slope on the main elevation of the home (where it fronts onto a highway). Under Permitted Development, verandas and balconies with elevated platforms are not permitted, although Juliet balconies are. If the work does not come under Permitted Development, as is frequently the case with mansard loft conversions, you will need to apply for planning approval. Loft conversions are also not permitted in some regions, such as conservation areas and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You would need to apply for planning permission in these cases. Permitted Development for loft conversions may have been removed in some places, so always check before starting a conversion project.

IS A PARTY WALL AGREEMENT ESSENTIAL FOR CONVERTING A LOFT IN ADDINGTON?

If you live in a semi-detached or terraced house, you must tell your neighbors of your planned work if it comes under the provisions of the Party Wall Act. "Unless your home is detached, you will have a party wall separating you from your neighbor's house, and most loft conversions entail adjustments to party walls, generally to hold steel beams," surveyor Ian Rock says. "It is a legal obligation under the Party Wall Act that neighboring neighbors be formally notified before modification work begins, which may necessitate the engagement of a Party Wall surveyor."