Planning and Building Control Regulations

U.K. Planning laws were relaxed in October 2008, so most loft conversions will be considered part of your property’s ‘Permitted Development Rights‘ therefore, most loft conversions will only need Building Regulations Approval.

Planning Permission

For more information regarding your ‘Permitted Development Rights’ visit the interactive house Planning Portal for loft conversions. If Planning Permission is required, it takes up to 6-8 weeks to gain approvals. If you are unsure whether your property has its ‘Permitted Development Rights’ intact check with you local Council, they can advise you accordingly. If your property is located in a Trust Area it is also required to obtain Trustee consent which can take up to 6-8 weeks.

Building Regulations

Building Regulations are concerned with the structural safety of the build. They are responsible for the checking and approval of plans prior to construction. Building Inspectors will visit during construction at various stages to check that the build is completed to the correct specification -these take approximately 6 weeks to obtain.

The whole process, from survey to Building Regulations approvals should take no longer than 8 – 12 weeks. Once all relevant approvals are gained, we will agree with you a start date for work to commence (if planning permission is required, could take up to an additional 6- 8 weeks)

What is not considered to be in the ‘Permitted Development Rights’ criteria?

  • If your property is lucky enough to be in a Conservation Area or is a Listed Building unfortunately you will need Planning Permission as these do not come under the ‘Permitted Development Rights’ criteria.
  • If your property’s ‘Permitted Development Rights’ have been removed as part of a previous planning application that your property has had.
  • Verandas, balconies, raised platforms are not classed as ‘Permitted Development’
  • If your loft conversion extension is over 50 cubic metres for a detached and semi-detached property or 40 cubic metres for a terraced house.
  •  Some new housing developments have had their ‘Permitted Development Rights’ removed by their Local Authority when the initial Planning Permission was granted for the development.
  • If your proposal requires any extensions beyond the plane of the front of house if fronting a public highway.

Construction – Complete Project Management

From the erecting of any scaffolding and delivery of materials, the construction of your loft conversion is expected to take between 4 – 6 weeks depending on the individual project. Each aspect of the construction is managed on your behalf. This includes the removal and relocation of tanks and pipe works, roofing, electrics, plumbing, plastering and joinery. Whatever is necessary to complete your loft conversion to the highest possible standard is managed ensuring the construction runs as smooth as possible.

Pre- Build Stage

Our Operations Manager will arrange to visit your property to complete a pre-build survey. This is an extremely important visit. You will have the opportunity to ask any questions, be guided through the construction process and confirm any personal interior material specifications.
All the necessary components for the construction will be assessed, quantified and ordered.
We will agree a start date for your loft conversion, ensuring you have the opportunity to plan around any personal commitments.
Materials will be delivered on the agreed start date.
The construction schedule which includes roofing, plumbing, electrics, plastering and carpentry will be completely managed by our Operations Manager.
Your bespoke stair parts will be manufactured in our joinery workshop by experienced joiners ready to be fitted as required.

The Construction Process

Scaffolding will be erected and materials are delivered on the agreed start date.
The construction schedule which includes, roofing,plumbing, electrics, plastering and carpentry will be completely managed by our Operations Team.
During the construction process building inspections will take place to maintain quality and Building Regulation compliance.
Your bespoke stairs will be manufactured in our joinery workshop by experienced joiners ready to be fitted as required.
Plastering will be carried out. This is an exciting time when you really see your conversion become part of your home.
The second fix process including electrics, plumbing and carpentry will be completed.
A Final inspection will be carried out by the appointed Building Control and a Completion Certificate will be issued.

Visit our Contact Page now for your free quote & design .