How to prepare for a loft conversion

A secret cinema room, more space for the kids to play, or an extra bedroom for guests or a new family member that’s on the way — there’s plenty of reasons for you to transform your unused loft space.

And while converting your loft is a big job, we’ll take care of everything, and help you every step of the way. But, before we bring in the planners, builders, plumbers, electricians and freshly painted walls, there are a few simple steps that you can take to speed up the process, and get your project underway as soon as possible.

Know what you’re looking for

Perhaps the most time-consuming part of loft conversion preparation, is deciding what you’ll turn your new space into, and how you’d like it to look. If it’s going to be a new hideaway space for movie nights, think about where you want the electricals and speakers. A new guest room with an ensuite? Consider what bathroom fixtures and fittings you’d like. While the loft conversion process is the same for everyone, how it looks and its design is unique to you.

If you’re at home and have a few minutes to spare, now would be a great time to prepare for your loft conversion project. Start planning some of the must-have accessories for your new place. Why not create a Pinterest board? They’re easy to make, and they’ll keep all of your inspirations in one easy-to-access place. Here are our ideas to help you design your dream bathroom.

Check your planning rights

If your new space is a standard room-in-roof loft, you’ll be pleased to know that most people don’t require planning permission. But, when you’re designing a dormer extension, you’re inside of a designated conservation zone, or you’re considering some other type of conversion, you might need permission.

If you do need planning permission, don’t panic. While it might seem like a complication, it’s a very straightforward process. Our team will be there to help every step of the way in order to prepare for your loft conversion. You can find out more about planning and whether you need it here.

Where’s your water tank?

While newer houses with modern heating systems likely won’t have one, a lot of homes in the UK still have in-attic water tanks. If you find one or two tanks for ventilated heating systems, you’ll need to consider how you’ll want to handle them. If the tanks are tucked out of the way and won’t interfere with your conversion, you’ll probably be able to leave them where they are. And, if they’re in the way, and you’re still reliant on them, then we’ll help you move them. Or, if you’ve already updated your heating system, or are considering doing it at the same time as your conversion, then removing them completely would be the best solution.

Inspect your roof membrane

How many of us go into our lofts to check the roof membrane each year? If it’s out of sight, it’s out of mind, right? Unfortunately, while most people’s roof membranes last a long time, they can’t last forever. To prepare for your loft conversion, you’ll want to make sure yours is intact and in good condition before building a brand new space under it. It’s not just to ensure your new conversion stays dry either. A sound roofing membrane is a must when it comes to passing building regulations.

Speak to the pros

Once you’re ready to start the next steps of your project, it’s time to contact the conversion specialists. If you’ve managed to answer some of the questions above, and you have a good idea of what it is you’re looking for, then you could provide us with a simple measurement of roof height and loft space, we can offer you a cost estimate. We’ll also use online planning portals to check for plans on similar properties, making our pricing as accurate as possible.

Consultation and COVID-19

Following government advice, we’re adapting our services, so we can provide the same top-level consultation our customers deserve during these uncertain times. We’ve implemented virtual meetings with our loft-conversion pros, Seb and Marius, who’ll help you to begin planning your next project from the safety of your home.

Still unsure of what you’re looking for? By discussing little details like where you live, the type of roof you have, how you want to use your loft, and your budget, our loft conversions experts will be able to guide you through the process. We’ll give you clear and precise information on how we can transform your loft space.

If you’re ready to start putting your dreams into design, contact us today, and get your project ready to go.