Loft Conversion Building Regulations

Changes To Part L

The tighter regulations have been brought in to lessen the nation's carbon footprint as it seeks to comply with EU and international regulations to reduce CO2 emissions.

Indeed, Part L of the regulations carries the sub text “Conservation of Fuel and Power.”

These changes are particularly pertinent to loft conversions as a large percentage of a house's heat is lost through the roof immediately above the loft space.

It is essential that your application for building regulations approval demonstrates that the work will comply with all the regulations demands.

It is also important to note that gaining building regulations approval is not the same thing as receiving planning permission for your loft conversion.

Most loft conversions do not require planning permission, but they do need to comply with building regulations to ensure that at least the minimum standards for construction and design are met.

Changes to the country's building regulations had been mooted as early as 2000.

As far as Part L of the regulations are concerned, they have proved to be a minefield for government.

Various interest groups, particularly those involved in the preservation of historical buildings such as English Heritage, have lobbied the government, and periodically new alterations to the code had been recommended.

The latest recommendations were made in April 2009, with the British government aiming to improve the energy efficiency of all new buildings by October 2010.

But in what was was hailed by critics as a climbdown by government, the tighter regulations relating to existing homes and buildings will not be as rigorously applied.

Despite the seeming uncertainty as far as Part L of the loft conversion building regulations are concerned, it is absolutely vital that the work you plan to have done on your loft conversion at least meets the minimum standards required.

In order to do that it is advisable to check with your local authority before submitting the application for building regulations approval.

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 for your loft conversion project...

Overview Of The Loft Conversion Building Regulations

Why You Must Have Building Regulations Approval

The Difference Between The Building Regulations And Planning Permission

Changes To Permitted Development

Loft Conversion