Planning permission for your loft conversion

In October 2008, new regulations came into effect which mean that you no longer have to apply for planning permission for your loft conversion, providing these following conditions and limitations are met:

Loft conversion example

 

1. Your loft conversion is no larger than 40m3 in a terraced house

2. Your loft conversion is no larger than 50m3 in a detached or semi-detached house

3. Your loft does not extend beyond the plane of the existing roof slope of the principal elevation that fronts the highway:

Loft conversion graphic

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Your loft does not extend beyond the highest part of the roof

5. You use materials similar in appearance to the existing house

6. Your loft conversion doesn't have any verandas, balconies or raised platforms

7. Side-facing windows must be obscure-glazed

8. Any opening should be 1.7m above the floor

9. Roof extensions are not to be permitted development in designated areas*

10. Your roof extension, (as part of your loft conversion) apart from hip to gable ones, should be set back as far as practicable, at least 20 cm from the eaves.

If you would like to convert your loft outside of these parameters then you will have to apply for planning permission which usually costs around £150 per house affected.

* Designated areas include national parks and the Broads, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, conservation areas and World Heritage Sites.

Source: planningportal.gov.uk

The information contained within this article is strictly for guidance only. Rated People recommends that you always check current sources of information in case regulations have changed. Rated People cannot accept any liability for miscommunication of the law in the case of a change in regulation or any action done to a property based on the information held in this article. Rated People © 2011.