A loft conversion is an ideal and cost-effective way of adding that much needed extra space to your home. Instead of having to sell your current home and incurring the expense of buying a new house. you should first consider converting your loft into some extra space. In this modern era where we often work from home, converting lofts has helped to create some extra home office space for lots of people.

Loft rooms can have multiple uses and are not just used as office spaces. You can convert your loft to create space for an extra bedroom or create some space to free up other parts of the house that are cluttered. On top of that, you will save a lot of money compared to other options such as home extensions.

One of the major reasons why loft conversions are extremely popular these days is that they do not need foundations, main walls or roofs. This means the entire conversion is much more affordable — even if you have a tight budget. Here are the key things you need to know about converting your loft into additional rooms.

Do you need planning permission?

Unlike many home extension projects where you are required to apply for planning permission, the majority of loft conversion projects do not require it. Converting your loft into additional rooms is often considered to be a permitted development which means that no formal permission is required before the project begins.

It is important to note that in some properties, the permitted development rights are restricted or completely prohibited. It is best to engage a professional who understands everything about loft conversions to be on the right side of the law. Fortunately, you can visit Humpreysandsons website to learn more about loft conversions.

Fire safety

This is an important consideration when planning to convert your loft. Building regulations require you to create a door that will serve as an escape route in case of fire. While in the past, a window was considered enough for this purpose, current regulations require you to create an escape corridor especially if your house is a storeyed building.

If your building has an entrance hall, the doors leading to the loft rooms will be sufficient to serve as fire escape routes. In the absence of the entrance hall, you will be required to build a partition in front of the rooms to create a hallway. Installing sprinklers is another solution for fire safety that is accepted by the local authorities.

Party walls

In most cases converting your loft into additional rooms does not require you to get a planning application but if you are sharing a wall with a neighbour and the proposed conversion is going to be on the wall, the neighbour must be consulted. Loft conversions might require you to erect steel beams which means some alterations to the shared wall must occur. The Party Wall Act requires you to formally inform your neighbour before you begin.

Windows and lighting

One huge benefit of converting your loft for additional rooms is that you can utilize skylights to provide lighting to the newly created rooms. You will not only save on construction costs but you will also end up saving on energy bills. During cold weather, your room will be warm and during hot summers, your room can get fresh cold air if you install skylights that can be opened. You can also install dormer windows for adequate fresh air and additional lighting for the loft rooms.