Building a house with a rectangular or square footprint with a simple pitched roof is the best way to reduce the cost of a conversion – without compromising on the build’s quality.

If we consider to an average three bedroom house, a loft conversation can add up to 25% to the value of your property.

While there are many good points to this type of upwards extension, it isn’t right for every building. It’s important to think about whether it’s the most suitable one for your house. Consider these factors:

• Ceiling height: As you’re not increasing headroom by building out, start with ample space to move around in comfortably, without ducking/stooping.
• Planning constraints: If you’re unlikely to get the go-ahead for a more substantial change to the structure, this is the way to go. If neighbours have been given the green light for a dormer etc. you might choose to go with a bigger project.
• District: In a conservation/heritage zone, or flat? Permission might be required.
• Window coverage: For adequate daylight levels, the glazed area should be at least 20% of the floor, so check this can be achieved.
• Positioning: Facing south? You’ll get lots of sunshine, perfect for winter. Blackout blinds help prevent overheating in the summer.
• Usage: Typically there’s only capability for one use, such as an office, bedroom or playroom. Want two bedrooms and a bathroom? You might prefer a different project.

Significant home improvement work is much easier when it falls under Permitted Development. This project can do so, as long as it complies with certain requirements, such as:

• Height not exceeding original roof
• Square footage below a certain amount (semis/detached total is larger than terraces)
• Neighbours unaffected (no overshadowing/overlooking)
• No balconies (except Juliet style)
• Materials match character of property

Even when all of these guidelines are met, you still need a Lawful Development Certificate, you also need to be sure the work adheres to Building Regulations.

Alex Cota can take care of these requirements for you.

Typically requires planning permission/building regulations approval.

• As mansard roofs have vertical slopes, they provide additional space compared to other roof types like hip or gable roofs.
• Can be used for both rural and urban areas. They are more popular in urban areas because they give an option to expand upwards, as there is not enough space to expand the building horizontally due to land constraints.
• Allow more light and better heat distribution within the building.
• They also save heating costs by evenly distributing heat inside the building.

Keep to certain guidelines and you won’t need planning permission for your expansion, as it’ll come under Permitted Development. These currently include:

• No more than 50m³ added (detached/semi), 40m³ (terraces)
• Not in conservation district
• Not a listed building
• No balcony (Juliet allowed)
• No materials that aren’t in keeping with original structure

The part facing neighbours might require permission.

There are also Building Regulations that your construction firm needs to adhere to.

There are many reasons to choose this process of enlarging your loft, but you’ll want to know the official situation before you dive in:

• Typically considered permitted development
• Planning permission usually not required
• Conservation areas can impose limitations
• Listed status can result in restrictions
• Building regulations approval necessary on completion

This option is available for many types of homes with slanting sides, including:

• Semi-detacheds
• Detacheds
• End-terraces
• Bungalows
• Chalets

In fact, it’s only mid-terraces that aren’t viable for this project.