Can you do a loft conversion yourself? Yes, you can do a loft conversion yourself with careful planning, time, and the right skills. If it's just for storage with minimal changes, you can likely handle it.
A loft conversion for your house is considered to be permitted development, not requiring an application for planning permission, provided certain limits and conditions are met.
On average, a basic small loft conversion can cost between £15,000 to £30,000, while more complex conversions with additional features may range from £30,000 to £50,000 or more.
Lowest cost: A rooflight conversion that simply involves fitting out the existing roof space, requiring limited structural alterations and the addition of insulation, plumbing and heating, staircase, plaster and decoration, will be the least expensive option.
Moreover, houses built during or after the 1960s may have trussed roofs, which are characterised by their 'W' shaped frames that support both the roof and the floor. These trusses are not designed with loft conversion in mind, as altering them is a complex process that requires replacement with sturdier supports.
While a DIY loft conversion can be a rewarding and cost-effective project, it's important to be aware of the potential downsides: Complexity and skill level: Loft conversions are complex projects that often require a high level of skill and experience.
Loft conversion drawing costs range between £1,500 and £3,000. This includes initial consultations, the development of the concept, and the final detailed plans necessary for construction and any required approvals. The final cost can vary depending on the project's complexity, location, and the architect's experience.
Finance options for loft conversions include personal loans, remortgaging, home equity release, using credit cards for payments, and exploring available grants. Each method offers distinct advantages depending on your financial situation and the scale of your project.
Drawing up your own plans for a loft conversion is allowed, but it is rarely a good idea. Unless you are an experienced architectural designer then the amount of things that could go wrong just makes things too risky…
The timeline to complete loft conversions depends on multiple variables, including project size, type of conversions, and challenges faced during conversions. However, on average, a project can be completed in 6–12 weeks. The entire process of loft conversion is divided into different stages.
Ideally, the new loft stair should sit over the existing stair and form a continuation of the vertical circulation from top to bottom through your home. The reasons for this are threefold. One, existing rooms are not compromised. Two, it's better for fire regulations – more below.
Examples of paperwork required include: Certificates of compliance/completion of works – evidence of building regulations being signed off by the local authority. Insurance and guarantee documents – from your loft conversion company, architect, builder and other professionals involved.
Your neighbours may reject your loft conversion plans due to noise, light, or privacy concerns, which will be taken into consideration by the council. If your planning permission is rejected, you can either appeal or amend your plans, keeping in mind the reasons for rejection.
On average, a basic loft conversion for 20m2 (215.3 square feet) can start from around £20,000 to £30,000, while more extensive and luxurious conversions can cost upwards of £50,000 or more. A well-executed loft conversion can significantly enhance a property's value, typically adding between 20% and 25%.
A lot needs to be considered structurally, and the interior needs to be carefully considered to avoid problems down the line. Choosing to convert a loft without an architect's help comes with several risks, including: Poor design – this can lead to your house price decreasing rather than increasing. Planning refusal.
The answer is quite a lot. As a guide, a well built and perfectly appointed loft conversion can add between 10–20% to the value of your home (Nationwide). They can add even more in areas where space is at a premium — for example, a loft conversion will add more value in London and other city centre properties.
A skylight (also known as a 'room in loft' or 'Velux' conversion) involves keeping the structure of the room as it is and simply fitting it out with better flooring, insulation, walls, and windows. This is the most budget-friendly conversion but does require you to have at least 2.1 metres of headroom available.
Head height
Depending on the type of building you live in (and most likely, the date it was built), the minimum headroom required by law may differ. As a general rule, 2.2m from floor to ceiling at its highest point is the threshold for undertaking a loft conversion.
Yes, a loft conversion can increase your property's value by up to 20%, add functional living space, and improve energy efficiency, making it a smart long-term investment.
This rule means, at least half of your attic space must be 7 feet high by 7 feet wide, with a total of 70 square feet. Keep in mind, codes vary from place to place, but for using the attic as an actual room, this rule typically applies.
Reach out to your local municipality to see if you need a permit for your attic remodel. A permit is usually only needed if: You are adding electrical wiring or ventilation. You plan to change the structure of your home in the process, such as knocking down an existing wall or adding a dormer.
If you are only carrying out internal works, planning permission is most likely not required. However, local interpretation can vary so it is important to have this verified. If you are planning on altering the roof space with an extension or dormer, planning permission would be required prior to beginning any works.