A loft conversion without planning permission can save you the added hassle of seeking permission. But you must not simply think that because your home won’t look different from the outside you won’t need planning permission. Your can carry out a loft conversion without planning permission under certain circumstances only. Read on to find out more.
Loft Conversion without Planning Permission : Knowing the Laws
If your conversion will alter or make an addition to your roof, then you will need to seek planning. For more information you can read the Class B of the Town and Country Planning Order 2015. If you wish to proceed with a conversion that does not need planning, then it will have to follow certain limitations and conditions as follows:
- A maximum added volume of 40 cubic metres for terraced dwellings. In the case of semi-detached and detached dwellings this limit goes up to 50 cubic metres.
- No extensions that reach beyond the plane of the existing roof slope are allowed. This is for the principal elevation that fronts out onto the road.
- No extension can be higher than the height of your roof at its highest existing point.
Materials used must be in keeping with your existing home. - You may not add balconies, raised platforms or verandas.
- Side facing windows must be fitted with obscure-glazed glass. This is also the case for any other windows that are at least 1.7 m above your roof
- You must check that your home is not within a designated area where roof extensions are not allowed. Your local authority will be able to help you ensure this.
- Roof extensions should be set at least 20 cm back from the original eaves of the roof except when your extension is a hip gable one.
- Your extension cannot overhang the outer face of the original wall of your home.
These guidelines only apply to houses, and not to flats, maisonettes, or to converted homes. If you are unsure as to whether you need to apply for planning permission or not, let BBN take the strain. Within our portfolio of loft extension experts in Bristol we have the power and the knowledge to know the local regulations for different areas of the city.
A loft conversion without planning permission can add vital space as well as value to your home. You can choose to add a bedroom, playroom, study, or even an ensuite upstairs. If you will require plumbing then once again leave the job to the specialists. Rules and regulations surrounding the converting of your attic space are in place to ensure safety is adhered to. The joists you will find in your loft are there for a purpose, as are all the beams. You cannot simply go ahead and remove vital supporting beams without professional advice. Follow the advice of the professionals and let your new loft conversion be the dream you have been longing for.