Building Regulations For Loft Conversions

Many of the questions we receive to our loft conversion advice page are from vendors or buyers of houses who are unsure of how the regualtions relate to their transaction. The query below is typical of those we receive:

Readers Question

Two years ago I bought a property which had a 'loft room'. I believe it was sold as a 'loft room' because there was no application submitted for building regulations approval.

However, I believe much of the construction would meet building regulation approval. The construction of the room is as follows:

Floor: Flitch beams circa 250/300mm deep installed in gable walls with new joists installed in between.

Roof construction: Vaulted roof construction (No Mansard) with 4 no. vulex windows. All wall and ceiling coverings are plasterboard, however, I do not know if they are firerated platerboard or normal plasterboard, although I expect they are the latter.

I believe much of the structure would achieve building regulations approval However, I am unsure about the staircase and access arrangements as the loft stairs are reasonably steep and is surrounded at the opening into the loft room by a ballustrade (i.e. no wals or doors around the staircase).

Furthermore, none of the doors throughout the house are fire rated either.

Could you please provide some inital advice on whether or not if I apply for building regulations approval, if I will be required to undertake extensive works to obtain building regulations approval.

Experts Answer

I assume that the loft room is at second floor level and you have recorded information of the conversion works, whilst this type of work may not require loft conversion planning permission it should have been submitted for Building Regulations for loft conversions approval.

Whilst you note the structure (Part A) there are many sections that require consideration.

Means of escape is one aspect and the fire regulations where amended in 2007. If you apply now for retrospective approval you will have to comply with all current requirements, which can include thermal and ventilation.

In answer to your question the new loft conversion fire regulations (Part B) are now very clear about protection of escape routes and smoke detection that has to be linked into the mains and have a back-up power source.

All doors onto a protected route have to be of the required fire rating and smoke detection will be required in living room, circulation areas as well as in the kitchen.

You can make a retrospective application, but you may be refused and have to put right all the required elements to satisfy Building Regulations. There is no easy answer, but it may be worthwhile speaking to your local councils building control officers and see what they require.

The building regulations for loft conversions are there for the protection of all and it really isn't difficult to convert the loft whilst staying within the regs. However the importance of obtaining the correct completion certificates can't be over-stated.

For more info see the related pages below or complete the form at the bottom of the page for a free no obligation quote from tradesmen near you...

How To Make A Building Regulations Application

Safety Considerations

If Your Building Regulations For Loft Conversions Application Is Rejected

All About Planning Permission

Get A Quote For Your Loft Conversion

Structural Calculations For Loft Conversions

Loft Conversion Ventilation

Plan A Loft Conversion

Loft Conversion