Loft Conversions Guide – Part Two
In part one of The Loft Conversions Guide we looked at how to assess the potential of your roof space. More people than ever are choosing to build loft conversions instead of moving house and a new loft room can not only be a great addition to the property but will also add a lot of value to the house By this stage you will no doubt have decided on your design concept and will be ready for the nitty gritty – getting your plans professionally drawn up and contracting a builder. Loft Conversions Guide - Choosing The Right Builder Choosing the right builder is of course very important. There are lots of companies out there who specialise in loft conversions and who provide a great service. And, despite the horror stories on TV and in the newspapers, the vast majority of builders are honest and hardworking. Although the media may make you think otherwise there really are more cowboys in Texas than in the Yellow Pages. Nevertheless, there are certain things to consider when choosing a builder but the best piece of advice is to keep your ears open. In the building trade word of mouth is by the best and most reliable advertising. If any of the neighbours have had loft conversions built ask them if they would recommend their builder but don’t just ask one person – ask as many as you can. With your design and builder chosen it is time to consider the red tape. Many building companies will handle all the paperwork for you but remember the ultimate responsibility is yours. Loft Conversions Guide To Raising The Finance Well - we have to face it sooner or later. That lovely new loft conversion needs to be paid for. For advice on raising a home improvement loan click here Loft Conversions Guide To Red Tape. With loft conversions as the homeowner you must ensure the correct planning permission and building regulations approval is obtained. By far the best advice here is to make a full plans building regulations application. The local council will then act as a safeguard during the construction of your new room. And, if you live in a terrace or semi-detached property you must also consider the Party Wall Act. Once all the correct approval has been granted and the actual building work is underway – don’t relax! Loft Conversions Guide - Managing The Project Even if your builder is doing everything this is still your project. Make sure you keep on top of everything, especially the budget, and ensure that the work is being carried out correctly. If in doubt about the standard of work contact your building control officer. Remember. A poor builder can always walk away – you have to live there. Don’t be afraid of being considered a nuisance during the build. You are the project manager. Loft Conversions Guide – Ten Golden Rules 1) Play it by the book. Don’t be tempted to ignore the building regulations or planning permission. 2) Make the councils building control officer your new best friend. He is there to help. Don’t see him just as someone who is there to interfere. His job is to ensure your project is completed safely and to specification and he will always be happy to offer guidance and advice. 3) Unless you live in a detached property don’t forget about the Party Wall Act. 4) Its all in the planning. Don’t rush and consider everything. Preparing well will ensure your project goes smoothly. 5) Listen to the experts. You may need to compromise your ideas. You may think a thirty foot turret on the roof of your house is perfectly feasible but if your architect suggests a nice dormer window instead – he is probably right. 6) Consider your neighbours and ensure that any disruption they suffer because of your building work is kept to the absolute minimum. 7) Choose your builder carefully and remember that the cheapest quote isn’t always the best. 8) Make sure the design you choose is really the one you want – there are no second chances here. 9) Project manage the build every step of the way. Its your money. Make sure it isn’t wasted. 10) Settle in for the long haul. A loft conversion is a big project and it will take time to complete.
Click here for a guide to loft conversion prices
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