Planning & Loft Conversions

Apart from the building regulations another factor to consider before undertaking a loft conversion is the small print on your mortgage agreement.

If your property is mortgaged than, when planning your project, it may be necessary to inform your lender. In the vast majority of cases there won’t be an issue but, because the bank or building society have a financial interest in the property, they may need to give their formal consent for the work.

As well as pouring through the small print on your mortgage agreement you will also need to consult your building and /or contents insurance policy when planning your conversion.

Most policies make it mandatory for the householder to notify the insurance company of any major building work to be carried out on the property.

Informing the insurance company of your intentions will negate any potential problems with potential claims at a later date. And, in the case of building insurance, the policy will need to be amended once the project is completed to take into account the extra space created by the loft conversion.

Local authority covenants need to be considered – especially if your house was purchased from the local council under the right-to-buy rules.

Restrictive covenants are conditions which govern how the land / property can be developed and sometimes preclude loft conversions.

Such a covenant is unlikely in most cases but if your property is a former council house it is worthwhile checking the Land Registry to make sure no such restrictions apply to your home.

One other thing to consider, unlikely as it may seem, are Bats!

Be warned.

If your roof space is home to a Bat colony then, by law, it is illegal to disturb them. Hopefully though, unless you live in an Adams Family style mansion, you won’t have to worry about Bats. If, however, you feel the need to research the issue have a look at the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981).

It is unlikely that any of the above considerations will need to be taken into account when thinking about your loft conversion but you should certainly inform your mortgage lender and insurance company of your intentions.

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...

Loft Conversion Guide

Loft Conversion Costs

Quick Guide To The Building Regulations

Party Wall Act

Planning Permission

Loft Conversion