Advice on loft conversions on the ladder??

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Permalink Reply by Julie on December 3, 2013 at 21:25

I'm sure that someone with more planning knowledge than me will have more information on the specifics, but my understanding is that the limitations are connected to permitted development and anything outside of those permissions would require planning permission. The planning portal is a really good source of information: http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/loftconv....

The restrictions aren't therefore imposed by the Council (unless there are conservation rules?). I don't think that you would get a different result (in terms of maximum size) by going with a bespoke designer rather than a one-stop shop builder. In both cases, the permissions apply and would need to be complied with. I suppose the bespoke designer could possibly make better use of the available space?

Assuming that your flat is in a standard ladder house, you can probably accommodate a double dormer, to include two double bedrooms and an en suite, all within permitted development. Your back room wouldn't extend to the back of the house due to the cubic metre limitations of permitted development, but you could seek to take the full permission route, which would take more time (although you may be delayed by Party Wall agreements etc anyway).

We recently had our loft converted by Rooftop Rooms.

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Permalink Reply by AxP on December 3, 2013 at 22:02

Hi Julie, thanks for such a detailed reply. I suppose in a sense you're right it's planning and not the council. My issue is that permitted development in houses allows for a pretty much full dormer whereas flats have to have dormer set back 0.5m from each boundary. Maybe it doesn't sound like a lot but in placing a staircase and trying to build in insulation every cm starts to count.

Thanks for mention Rooftop rooms I have also found the very useful postings about various companies in the HoL trades threads.

I think I've a fantastical notion that there is somehow 'a way around' having a smaller dormer. Thanks though!

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Permalink Reply by Justin Guest on December 4, 2013 at 11:58

I believe if you are in a flat you have to get planning permission, not sure if you actually have any 'permitted development' unless you have the full house!

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Permalink Reply by Justin Guest on December 4, 2013 at 13:14

A friend of mine recently ran into this one sadly for them- and I agree, its not fair especially for a loft conversion...

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Permalink Reply by AxP on December 6, 2013 at 17:32

Hi ML - your responses to my post have been really useful - esp 'a good architect will know how best to utilise' that's the bit I am in a quandry about. If I spend extra for a proper architect I want a good return; if I am to be limited by space then I'll just do the most basic (and cheap) conversion! Can we exchange numbers so I can speak to you a little more? I have sent a connection request through HoL mail?? Many thanks, Alex

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Permalink Reply by 26mhcx4vtb0rb on December 6, 2013 at 22:14

Been keeping an eye on this since it was posted.

I recently bought a first floor ladder flat and had considered the possibility of converting the loft at some point in the distant future. At the moment I don't need the extra space, which is fortunate because I don't have tens of thousands of pounds burning a hole in my back pocket and very likely won't have for a good while.

Had read up on the regulations for loft conversions and was aware that you could extend back from the roof line without planning permission. It never occurred to me that permission be required specifically for flats. I guess that explains why there are relatively few on the ladder, but does anyone know what the reasons are for refusing it?

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Permalink Reply by AxP on December 16, 2013 at 17:46

Hi Ian,

You will get permission to do a conversion in a flat, it's just that you'll have to restrict the size of the dormer. So it could still be worth doing - there's ample space for a bedroom and personally I'd rather have large bedroom plus storage than a bedroom with ensuite. I think you'll find the ensuite might have to be the compromise in terms of the space restriction.

I'm happy to discuss it with you if you get to that stage!

Best,

AxP

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