If you are planning to convert your attic space into another living area, you will need planning permission. You must also consider the time it will take to get permission and the likelihood of success. If you need assistance, contact our professional loft conversion company. You also need to consider the lighting in your new loft space. Adding several different sources of light will give you flexibility when you use your new space. 

Dormer loft conversions 
When it comes to the style of dormer loft conversion that you’d like to have in your loft, you’ll have a lot of options. Choosing the right style can be challenging, but an expert can advise you on which style will look best in your home. Skylights are an excellent option for Banstead homes that have sloping roofs. They’re also an excellent choice for terraced homes and semi-detached homes.

In most cases, dormer loft conversions in Banstead don’t need planning permission, although there are some conditions that may apply. For instance, if you live in a conservation area or a listed building, you will need permission from the local authority.

Velux windows are the most affordable option
Velux windows are the cheapest option for loft conversions in Banstead, as they can be fitted flush with the roofline. This means that no extensive alterations are necessary to install them, and they don’t need planning permission.

These windows are typically installed in the top hung operating level of lofts and are available in various sizes. They can also be fitted with solar or electric controls. They come in standard white paint or polyurethane finishes, and you can even select a premium pine finish. There is also the option of fitting noise reduction or extra security glass to the windows.

Loft conversions must meet building regulations
In order to complete a loft conversion, it is important to comply with building regulations. These regulations cover the size and shape of spaces and also require good insulation. Lofts typically have smaller rafter thicknesses, so good insulation is crucial. In addition, the floor space of a loft conversion must be at least 70 square feet. It must also have a ceiling height of 7 feet for at least 50% of the floor space.

Is there a need to follow fire safety regulations during loft conversion?
As a part of following building regulations, the need to indicate fire safety protocols in the construction plan is vital. The builders you will hire for the loft conversion must specify in the building plan the provisions for escape when a fire breaks in the house. Additional fire protection will be necessary and must be included in the construction of the loft conversion as well. Fire-resisting doors must be installed together with smoke alarms and sprinkler systems. The walls and loft stairs need to offer at least 30 minutes of fire resistance. Keep in mind that all these points must be carefully laid out and meticulously established in your loft for you to be able to acquire a building regulations approval.

Is planning permission necessary for a loft conversion?
The simplest type of loft conversion will not require you to obtain planning permission, this is because this kind of home upgrade is considered a permitted development rights. For ease in the process of loft conversion, you must ensure that the proposed development will use similar materials as what your house currently has. The original roof space must not exceed 50 cubic meters or 40 cubic meters for a terraced house. Additionally, the construction will not exceed the height of your propertys existing roof. If the loft conversion follows these limitations, planning permission will not be needed. Hence, it is wise to check with your builder if the acquisition of this document will be included in the process of loft conversion, otherwise, you will be fined or imprisoned.

How long will a loft conversion take to be finished?
A Velux loft conversion is the quickest type of loft conversion to be built. Usually, construction of this kind takes 4 weeks or less. On the other hand, a mansard loft conversion is the type of loft conversion that requires the longest construction timeframe because of the massive transformation it will create on your property. It takes 10 weeks or more to complete a mansard so you must be fully committed as you decide in choosing this type of loft conversion.