Free Step by Step Guide For Planning A Loft Conversion in 2026

Step 1: Think About How You Want to Utilise Your Space

Congratulations, you’re planning a loft conversion. You’ve decided that it’s going to happen – now for the rest of the decisions that follow!

Take some time to think about what you would like to do with your space. The popular choices:
– An extra bedroom
– A children’s playroom
– A home office
– Cinema room
– Extra storage space/walk-in wardrobe

… but don’t stop there. Could it be an artists studio? A darkroom? Yoga studio? It’s your space, your choice.

Step 2: Do Your Research

Now you’ve had some time to think about how you’d like to utilise your space, you can now begin researching loft conversion companies in your local area. Be sure to look at previous projects and read their customer reviews, as these are a great way to gain insight into client experiences – as well as their responses to any less than 5 star reviews. Are they sharing expertise and knowledge on similar projects? Are they open about costs, acknowledge that some people need financing options, and discuss time frames? Or is all demanding an email before they share anything?

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, you can then get in touch to arrange a quotation.
Remember to check that they are registered with the federation of master builders or check a trade

Step 3: Quotation Appointment

During each of your quotation appointments, make sure each business is extremely clear about what’s included in their price. Sadly, many of our competitors will try and influence you with the cheapest quote which is normally far too good to be true, as more often than not, this will only include the bare minimum.

Step 4: Designing Your Space

When the architect is designing your loft space, make sure they are maximising your space to the fullest. Look out for these green flags in the design process:
– Adding built in storage/wardrobes
– Taking advantage of corners and awkward spaces
– Use of skylights to increase natural light

Step 5: Planning Permission

If you need to submit your drawings for planning permission, then you can do this via a lawful development certificate or by completing a full planning application.

It’s all dependent on what type of property you have and what type of area you live in. If you require planning permission, then the company in charge of your loft conversion build will be able to talk to you about this in more detail.

Step 6: Party Wall Agreement

If your loft conversion is going to involve construction work on walls that are shared with adjoining properties, then you will need a party wall agreement. This will need to be signed and in place with your neighbours before the work can begin.

Step 7: Submit Your Structural Drawings

One week before your loft conversion project begins, you will need to submit your structural drawings to building control for approval. This will ensure that your loft conversion is fully compliant with building regulations and that it meets all of the necessary health and safety requirements.

Step 8: Your Loft Conversion Project Begins

And finally, the moment that you’ve been waiting for. Your loft conversion build can now begin – and you can read more on that process here.