Wondering whether you need to get an architect involved to help design your loft conversion? Well, the simple answer is no, you don’t, however, it’s not always that simple. While an architect isn’t essential for this kind of work, they can help to save you a lot of headaches, and also money. They can help to make the whole process easier and ensure the whole project goes according to plan. We’ll take a closer look in this article.
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When you have a traditional extension built on your home, you’re typically starting from scratch, which is relatively simple. However, with a loft, you are working with a predetermined space. This can make things tricky, especially as a lot of lofts were not built with future conversion in mind. A lot needs to be considered structurally, and the interior needs to be carefully considered to avoid problems down the line.
Choosing to convert a loft without an architect’s help comes with several risks, including:
The risks listed above all require different specialists to solve, including environmental officers, planning departments, structural engineers, building control, plumbers, and electricians. However, an architect can help you to address each of these issues during the early stages of the project, helping to ensure it runs much more smoothly. They can also help to facilitate each step of the process.
A lot of people think that an architect is purely there to help ensure the loft conversion is compliant and designed well; however, it’s important to also consider how the conversion will affect the value of your property.
A poorly designed loft conversion can lower the resale price of your home, and if you fail to meet the building regulations, you can’t legally advertise your conversion as an extra room. Even if you don’t currently have any plans to sell and move, things do change, and you may have an unexpected move in your future. Should this happen, you may find that mortgage providers will refuse to lend the amount the future buyer requires, and home insurance companies may also decline insurance. This can lead to you needing to take out an indemnity policy before you can sell your home.
If you choose to hire Simply Easy Refurbs to perform your loft conversion, we will ensure an architect is part of the project from start to finish. We can help with the three main types of loft conversion – hip-to-gable, dormer, and roof light – and also advise you on which of these will work best in your current home. Our architect will ask you a number of questions about your current property and how you want to transform the space to help determine this.
With the above information at hand, we will guide you through the loft conversion process, and provide you with precise and clear information about how you can transform your loft and what to expect. We aim to make the whole process as easy and hassle-free as possible, and truly believe that an architect is a key part of this.
If you’re interested in converting your loft, give us a call on 0203 648 9687, or send us an email. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible with a free, no-obligation quote.
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Skipping out on a loft conversion architect might seem like a way to cut down on loft conversion costs, but in the long run, it can lead to more problems than solutions. Without the right planning from the start, you might run into issues with your roof structure, structural changes, or even clash with building regulations. This could delay your loft conversion project, increase your spend, or worse, put the safety of your home at risk.
An architect helps ensure your existing roof and floor space can handle the load of a new loft conversion, especially in older or smaller homes like semi detached houses or terraced houses. Without their input, you could miss out on usable space, end up with an awkward new staircase, or install dormer windows in the wrong spot which could limit natural light or break planning rules.
A lot of people assume an architect’s job ends once the drawing is done. But their role goes far beyond a simple sketch. They consider everything from insulation requirements to structural integrity, electrical systems, and energy efficiency. They also think through how to make your new loft space feel like a natural extension of your existing living space, rather than an afterthought.
They work closely with structural engineers, help prepare architectural drawings, and factor in the best ways to maximise built in storage or plan for an en suite. Whether it’s a mansard loft conversion, a dormer loft conversion, or a basic loft conversion, each design needs to be aligned with your existing structure, roof pitch, and vertical wall space to make the most of the area.
Hiring an architect during the early stage of your build can help avoid common setbacks. From gaining planning permission or working under permitted development rights, to preparing building regulations plans, having expert input reduces the chance of a rejection or a costly redesign.
They also consider things like your party wall agreement, deal with planning departments, and help guide project management from start to finish. That means fewer back-and-forths, a smoother experience, and peace of mind knowing your new room is being built the right way.
Whether you’re adding a guest room, creating more space, or just want to keep your property value strong, involving an architect in your loft extension makes a lot of sense. Even the most cost effective conversion still needs careful planning, accurate measurements, and someone who understands how the existing space works with your end goal.
Working with a loft conversion company like SimplyEasy Refurbs means you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. From dealing with building control to handling the completion certificate, we’ll keep things running smoothly from start to finish. If you’ve got questions or want to get started, just give us a ring – we’re happy to help.
If you’re ready to sit back and enjoy a Simply Easy Refurb on your home, contact us today.
