Do I need planning permission for a dormer loft conversion?

What is a Dormer Loft Conversion?

The dormer loft conversion is the most popular type of loft conversion in the UK. It is an ideal loft conversion for any property with a sloping roof. A window is added that increases the length of the room by altering the slope of the roof. To be in line with building regulations, the window should be facing the front side of the house. A dormer loft conversion allows you to not only increase the length of the floor in your loft but also the headspace. 

What is Planning Permission and Why Do I Need It?

Planning permission is a process that you will need to go through to get certain types of building work approved for your home. It will either be granted or refused. In some cases, planning permission is granted subject to certain conditions. If planning permission is required, it must be granted before you begin carrying out any work. 

Planning permission is needed for various reasons including environmental health, design and aesthetics of an area, wildlife and nature, and roads and highways where they may be affected. 

Failure to obtain with or comply with planning permission is known as a planning breach. This is best avoided, but it is not illegal, and in some cases, the council will permit retrospective applications in the case of planning permission not being sought. However, if you go ahead with building work after planning permission is rejected, the council can send you an enforcement notice to put things back to how they were. 

Is Planning Permission Needed to Have a Dormer Conversion?

The good news is that for the most part, standard dormer loft conversions fall under permitted development rights and planning permission is not required. However, it’s important to do your research first, as this might not always be the case. 

Your property will need to meet certain conditions if you want to have a dormer loft conversion installed without applying for planning permission. These include restrictions on the size and height of the dormer and an expectation that you will use materials that are similar to the rest of your property. You will need to apply for planning permission if you want to add a balcony or veranda to the loft conversion since these are not included under permitted development. You are not permitted to add a dormer window that overlooks a neighbour’s house. Bear in mind that if you live in an area that is considered to have particular character and charm, you may be required to apply for permission to have the loft conversion carried out since your local authority is unlikely to allow any building work that may disrupt the aesthetics of the area. This includes sites of historic interest, national parks, and conservation areas. 

While planning permission is not required for dormers that meet the permitted development requirements, it’s important to remember that the work should meet all current building regulations for a loft conversion. Here at SimplyEasyRefurbs, we always carry out our work in accordance with building regulations and can provide further planning permission advice if needed. 

Ready to discuss your plans for a dormer loft conversion? Get in touch today.

Why choose Simply Easy Refurbs for your loft conversion? To learn more about loft conversions or to discuss your property in more detail, talk to our experienced SimplyEasy Refurbs team today!