Frequently asked questions

Q. Can my loft be converted?
A. As long as there is seven feet approx from top of existing ceiling joists to ridge line (apex).

Q. Do we need our own plans drawn up?
A. No, we have our own architect who will deal with the drawings and planning approval.

Q. Is the work supervised?
A. The loft conversion will be supervised by us at all times, giving you the opportunity to discuss any alterations or concerns you may have during the construction of your new room. We also ensure that the quality of the work is only to the highest standard.

Q. What experience do Top Loft Conversions have?
A. We have over 25 years experience and have completed 100s of lofts. We have never used any subcontractors and never will. We specialise only in loft conversions.

Q. What about any permits that my be required?
A. We will arrange all required permits from skips to scaffolding if and when applicable.

Q. Is the design of my loft conversion free?
A. No, the cost is detailed in the quotation.

Q. Will a loft conversion add value to my house?
A. Estate agents say a fourth bedroom is the single most valuable feature a family house can have and usually converting an attic is, generally, simpler and cheaper than building an extension.

The most importantly, a loft conversion should not look or feel like an ''add-on'' because if it does it will add little to the value of the house. The staircase is the key to making a conversion look as though it is part of the original house.

Wherever possible the stairway should be a natural continuation of the original staircase so that the transition from ‘old’ to ‘new’ is seamless and within the conversion itself the style should follow that in the rest of the house.

Q. Do I need planning permission?
A. Most loft conversions do not need planning permission unless:

• you live in a conservation area or your house is a listed building;
• you want to put in dormer windows facing the road or if the position of a dormer window would invade your neighbour’s privacy;
• any part of the conversion (including a dormer window) will be higher than the existing roof;
• your house has already been extended to the limit of its permitted development (15% of its original size). You may still be able to add a loft conversion even if you have had some extension work done.

Q. How long does planning permission take?
A. This varies from council to council but, generally, you should get a decision within 8 weeks.

Q. What building regulations apply to loft conversions?
A. Building Regulations are concerned with the finer practical details, to make sure that the work complies with Health & Safety for construction and habitation.

Approval for a loft conversion is required if the space is to be used on a regular basis as a ‘habitable space’.

We would submit the plans to the Building Control Office on your behalf; these can take 5 - 8 weeks to process. Administration fees and site visits by the Building Control Officer vary throughout the UK, with each authority having their own scale of charges. An average budget of around £600 should be allowed.

The local authority will inspect work in progress to ensure regulations are being properly observed.

If you have any further questions why not give us a call on 020 8994 6436.