Living in London, property and space are two essential commodities, and there’s plenty of advantages to getting your loft converted to put a value on the price of your home and give you more living space to move about in. Before settling on plans for a loft conversion, there are some crucial things to consider to make the whole process more worthwhile.
Is Your Loft Space Suitable For Conversion?
Not all lofts or attics are suitable for loft conversions as this depends on the structure of the house that you are living in. If the middle of the loft is too low or the pitch is too steep, it might not be worth even considering the idea of loft conversion, so do your research first. If the costs involve having to lower ceilings, it may not be worth it, and building regulations usually stipulate a minimum of two metres over stairs and 2.3 metres under the apex. These measurements may vary depending on where you live though.
Choose The Right Loft Conversion Company
There are plenty of loft conversion companies in London, so make sure you consider exactly what you want in a loft conversion. It makes sense to get plenty of quotes from potential loft conversion companies, and they should get back to you quickly with competitive quotes. When choosing the right company, make sure you know their schedule, and if it’s realistic that they will finish the job within the timescale, they have given. A necessary loft conversion should be completed within six to eight weeks. Three to four quotes is the minimum, and it’s worth looking at each company’s website for positive reviews and testimonials from satisfied customers.
On top of the costs for the actual loft conversion, it’s worth setting aside money (around 15% of your loft budget) for cosmetic work after the builders have gone. This may include plastering, wallpapering, and painting, as well as some unforeseen expenditures.
Consider Your Neighbours And Insurers
If your loft conversion changes any adjoining ceilings, walls or floors of a neighbouring property, you may need a specific agreement from that neighbour. You may wish to notify neighbours of the ensuing building work which will be taking place as this could create added dust, noise and additional vehicles and skips outside your home. Give them some warning and thank them in advance for their patience. Consider your own needs as well. If you have a young family, how will the dust and noise affect them?
Other Parties Which Need To Be Informed
Not all loft conversions will need planning permission from your local council, but it’s worth flagging up the changes with your local planning officer. Every loft conversion does need to comply with building regulations and will be checked during the conversion process as well as afterwards. You can avoid considerable costs or fines by making sure additions do not have to be removed after the project completion – should they not fulfil the set regulations.
A reputable loft conversion company will give you a quick, competitive quote as well as advice on timeframes, so be sure to use the right one before you commit.
