Possible Loft Conversion

Longimanus

Longimanus

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Lee
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I am hoping that there are some people on this forum that can help with a few loft conversion queries as I am a little unsure where to start.

My plan is to convert my current loft into a main bedroom and ensuite, by converting the roof from a hipped roof to a gable end and installing a rear dormer. I am 95% sure this will be approved as it has been done before on houses in my road.

I have enquired with a construction/planning consultant who has given me some prices, but I wanted to get peoples thoughts on what I should do?

I believe that I will need planning permission, would you agree? If so what do I need to get this granted? Can I do it myself? What is the going rate to get this done for you?
How much would you expect to pay for a design/plan?

I understand that there are building regulation costs and these will be incurred during the build, I am trying to work out the pre building work/costs.

If there is anything else that I need to do then please let me know.

Thanks in advance for the help
 
I had one done a few years ago now. I know planning regs have changed since so I don't really know about costs anymore. If you need PP though I would make friends with them. It sounds trite, but a planning officer has so much ability to make your life hell or not with this. The best thing I did was to go and have an informal chat with one, bounce ideas off her and find what would, and wouldn't be acceptable.

Are you sure you actually need it though? Obviously you should pay for advice but this website suggests (subject to limitations) you don't anymore http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/loftconversion/
 
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The fact you are converting the roof from a hipped, to a gable end would suggest that you will need planning as you are making a major alteration to the appearance of your house.

As suggested the best bet is to go and speak with the planning officer initially, get their opinion on it before committing to the expense of getting plans drawn up.

You will need Building Regulation Approval.
 
Many thanks for the quick responses on this.

Looks like I should book an appointment then and go and see the planning officer, hopefully I will come out with a much better idea of what I need to do

Thanks
 
My brother did a loft conversion this autumn, including a rear dormer and high level front velux. He didn't need planning permission (checked with LA), but did need building regs, like all habitable space does. His house is a mid-terrace so he also needed party wall stuff taking care of and didn't have to convert the end of the roof as he only has a front and back, either side is other houses.
 
Don't forget building control too, not the same as planning permission.
 
Again thanks all, I have contacted my local planning authority and they said I can send in all the details and they will let me know what is feasible, at least it gets the ball rolling, if only they said that 2 weeks ago when I contacted them:confused:
 
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