By Laura Potts, MRTPI, Planning Consultant, CAD Architects
In an earlier blog article, Going Underground, we considered the opportunities created by going underground. https://cadarchitects.co.uk/architects-news/going-underground/
In today’s blog, we are looking at going up! Rather than utilising a basement, a popular choice for many is a loft conversion.
As families expand, or need to consider the impact of multi-generational living, or working from home, a loft extension can be a great solution. Useful new space can be created in this way, also opening new opportunities for how your family live, work and play.
Sometimes a loft conversion is considered as part of a wider house renovation or extension scheme.
In the UK, many loft conversions are considered to be permitted development, meaning you don’t need planning permission. However, there are limits and conditions that apply.
Although it is not essential to hire an architect for a loft conversion, at CAD Architects in Truro, we would certainly recommend that you use an architect to help you design the best possible conversion and deliver all your requirements. Our independent Planning Consultancy service can also help guide you through the maze of planning-related issues, ensuring that you avoid any issues later on.
Here is an ‘at a glance’ guide to considerations to bear in mind if you are planning a loft extension and would like to understand what is covered by permitted development rules.
Limits
- The extension can’t be higher than the highest point of the existing roof;
- The roof enlargement does not overhang the outer face of the wall of the original build;
- The extension can’t exceed 40 cubic meters for terraced houses, or 50 cubic meters for detached and semi-detached houses;
- The extension can’t include verandas, balconies, or raised platforms.
Conditions
- The extension must match the appearance of the existing house, using the same materials;
- Roof extensions must be set back at least 20 centimetres from the eaves;
- You might need to install fire-resisting doors or partitions;
- You might need to install a permanent staircase as a fire escape.
Other considerations
- You might need private agreements, such as a party wall agreement;
- You might need Building Regulations approval;
- You might be liable for a Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL);
- You might need to consider the impact on neighbouring properties.
- You should check if your property is subject to Article 4 Directions:
Some areas such as Conservation Areas may have “Article 4 Directions” which could remove permitted development rights for certain types of work, including loft extensions, so always check with your local planning authority. If you are in Cornwall, you can check if you are in an area affected by Article 4 Directions in Cornwall by using this interactive map: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/a3074c31108a43ada55e21e660bc043d/
Although the permitted development route can be helpful as a way of streamlining the process, the best design for your loft ultimately depends on your space, budget, and needs.
CAD Planning can help guide you through the process of getting planning approval for more sophisticated architectural designs, such as mansard loft conversions and larger extensions.
Please get in touch to discuss how we can assist with your loft extension project and help turn your vision into reality.
You can contact us on 01872 630040 or email info@cad-planning.co.uk.