A loft conversion is a fantastic way to add much-needed space to your home. Whether you’re in a terraced, semi or detached home, space is always a premium, especially in the city! We’re exploring the different factors you’ll want to consider when planning a loft conversion in London.
1. Why extend?
Moving house, especially in London, can be expensive. From estate agents fees to stamp duty, moving costs can be in excess of £40,000!. If space is what you need, extending your existing home with a loft conversion could be a more financially viable approach with the potential bonus of increasing your home’s value up to 20%.
2. Choosing the Best Style for your Space
Mansard Loft Conversion: This style of loft conversion that can essentially add an entire additional story to your home. Named after 17th Century architect Francois Mansart, this loft conversion ultimately changes the sloping side of the roof to a virtually vertical one, and, once complete, it can add 10x more space than a dormer loft conversion.
Dormer Loft Conversion: This is the most common type of loft conversion in the UK. Built from the existing slope of the roof, Dormer Loft Conversions allow for additional floor space as well as headroom. In addition, Dormer conversions are less expensive than other styles of loft conversion and are suitable for almost any house with a sloping roof.
Hip to Gable Loft Conversion: Most commonly used on semi-detached and end-of-terrace properties, this style of loft conversion can also be suitable for some detached properties that have a hipped roof on either side. It is ideal when the loft lacks space for other styles of loft conversion.
Skylight Loft Conversions: Requiring minimal structural work, this is a cost-efficient solution that adds more windows to the loft. If budget and ease are key factors, skylight loft conversions are far more affordable than other styles and usually only take a few weeks to complete.
Permission & Regulation
Many types of loft conversion do not require planning permission as they are considered ‘Permitted Development’. This makes the building process more streamlined, but forget to pay attention to building regulations. Work with your loft conversion specialist to make a full plan. Remember to let your home insurers know about the conversion, and if you have a terraced or semi-detached home, don’t forget to discuss it with the neighbors if their house falls under the Party Wall Act requirements.
4. Suitable Space
There is a number of criteria required to determine whether your space is suitable for a loft for conversion. Before reaching out to a builder, do your own research, take some measurements of your own and get an idea of what type of conversion you want. Have a look for any similar properties in your area that have undergone a similar conversion. If you’re feeling bold, knock on the door or send them a note; they may even let you have a look!
Natural light & Windows
Natural light is essential to any well-designed space. Look at the positioning of the windows, doors and shape of the house to optimize natural light. Skylights provide a great option for adding light to any loft space, are easy to fit, and require only minor structural alterations.
Bathroom
Who doesn’t want an en-suite bathroom? Adding a bathroom to your conversion is a great way to increase the value of your home. Before you start picking out your tub, make sure you have enough space are able to connect to an existing water system and boiler.