To get planning permission, you need to be aware of the requirements that your loft conversion must meet. These requirements include 50mm of insulation, Soundproofing between the proposed space and adjacent areas, and 30-minute fire protection. If you are planning to convert a loft in West Clandon, here are some important things you should consider.

Soundproofing between proposed space and adjoining areas
Soundproofing between a proposed space and adjoining areas is critical when planning a loft conversion. This is because it prevents noise from coming in and going out of the area. This is especially important if you’re planning to convert a loft into a study. You don’t want noise from your living room, kitchen, or playroom to filter into your study.

One way to soundproof a loft is to improve the mass and density of the surrounding walls. Then, you can add acoustic insulation to the walls. The acoustic insulation helps absorb sound and reduce reverberation. Soundproofing is also very important if height restrictions exist in your loft.

50mm of insulation
The first step to a loft conversion is gaining planning permission. This is essential for any loft conversion, as it ensures that the conversion adheres to the Building Regulations. You must notify your local authority and an approved independent inspector of the proposed works. You can do this either by following the Building Notice route, which requires only 48 hours notice, or the Full Plans route, which requires six weeks notice. The Full Plans route requires the submission of a detailed package of building regulations, which allows you to make comments before the work starts, and it also helps to avoid costs overruns or schedule delays.

Another important aspect of a loft conversion is insulation. The loft should be well-insulated, so it can save energy and reduce CO2 emissions. A good way to achieve this is to install high-performance insulation boards between the rafters and under the floor. Make sure to leave a gap of 50mm between the insulation and the roof or soffit to prevent condensation. 

What are the different types of loft conversions?
Since a loft conversion can provide you with limitless options for design, you need to make sure that you’re getting the type that’s most suited for your property and for your purpose. It’s important to pick the most ideal type of loft conversion for your house in West Clandon so you can completely utilize the available space. If you’re new to the idea of loft conversion types, here’s a short list to quickly guide you in choosing the type that best fits your area.

Roof Light Loft Conversion – Redesign an old, empty space without going over the budget with this type of loft conversion. A roof light loft conversion also known as an internal loft conversion is regarded as the most simple, straightforward conversion since construction will only need new skylight windows to be installed on your roof and you can already enjoy your newly added space.

Dormer Loft Conversion – Have the chance to add an extra room with an ample amount of space with this type of loft conversion. Getting a dormer loft conversion is the right choice for you if you have a sloped roof. With this kind of loft conversion, you’ll be provided with more floor area and headroom than a roof light loft conversion can grant you.

Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion – Enjoy the benefit of owning a loft with a bigger space compared to the first two. Construction of a hip-to-gable loft involves straightening the slanted end of your roof and creating a vertical wall to be able to create a maximized floor area, which is why it is the best match for semi-detached and terraced properties.

Mansard Loft Conversion – You can regard this type as the most expensive style of loft conversion because of the massive change it will create on your property. After having a mansard loft constructed in your house, expect that you’ll be having an area that’s almost similar to a new storey. Be informed though, since it requires complex planning you shall be tasked to acquire planning permission first before you can proceed with the construction.

Do I need to move out of my house during a loft conversion?
You’re not required to. This is because the loft conversion only happens at the top of your house. You’ll be given the chance to move out though if you dislike being inconvenienced when doing your daily routine, however, choosing to stay will also be an advantage for you since you can easily check how the loft conversion progresses. And if you’ll only go with a simple and quick room transformation, you can save on money and effort if you decide to stick around your house while your loft is being converted.