Loft converters should 'consult others'
Monday, 10th November 2008

People hoping to convert their loft into an extra room should talk to both a building specialist as well as their neighbours, it has been recommended.

Andrew Leech of the National Home Improvement Council first highlighted the need to speak to a building consultant or architect to ensure that legal ramifications of a conversion are followed.

He added that although a person did not need to apply for planning permission to go ahead with a loft conversion, they still needed to apply for a building regulations permit to ensure that there would be no alterations that could damage the integrity of the structure.

Furthermore, Mr Leech emphasised the importance of speaking to neighbours to make sure they are fine with the work.

He continued: "With anything you do around your home which means making a difference, you should have a word with your neighbours to keep them sweet because the last thing you want to do is lose a friend."

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors said that a loft conversion could add as much as £10,000 to the value of a property.