Planning

Not all loft conversions require planning permission, but generally if you are making additions and extensions that will change the external appearance of your property, you will need planning permission. Internal alterations do not usually require permission.

If you live in a conservation area or a listed building, you will need to check with your local planning authority regarding permission.

Permitted development is when you are allowed to make certain alterations without the need for planning permission but there are limits on height and volume, so we would advise you to consult your local authority or architect.

Planning applications

Generally local authorities notify you of their decision within 8 weeks. Links to local council planning application websites to track progress are:
Wandsworth Borough Council – www.wandsworth.gov.uk
Hammersmith & Fulham Council – www.lbhf.gov.uk
London Borough of Richmond – www.richmond.gov.uk
Lambeth Council – www.lambeth.gov.uk

Party Wall Awards

Most loft conversions affect the structure of a party wall, and you will need to notify all the adjoining owners of that party wall. They will be notified by your local authority, but we strongly advise you to have a friendly chat with your neighbours yourself, explaining the work you intend to have done to your property.

You will need to produce a copy of your Party Wall Award before work starts. Please do not underestimate the length of time this can take. You may need to appoint a Party Wall Surveyor, but please contact us for further information. We can recommend and introduce you to a reputable surveyor.

Building Control

Before work commences, we apply to the local authority on your behalf, who then appoint a Building Control Officer whose role is to ensure, throughout your loft process, that any building work conforms to building regulations, and the approved plans, and approved materials. We would normally expect them to visit 3 or 4 times during the course of the works. At the end of the works, the Building Control Officer will then ‘sign off’ the work.

Electrical Certificate and Completion Certificate

You will be provided with these once all works have been completed and payments have been made in full.

Scaffolding Alarm

For added security during building works we can arrange for the front and/or rear scaffold to be alarmed.

Bathroom fittings

It is important that all bathroom/shower room fittings are ordered in good time so that they are delivered in time for fitting. We recommend Bathroom Discount Centre www.bathdisc.co.uk 297 Munster Road London SW6 who offer a 10% discount to our clients.

Guarantees

Lofts over London Ltd is a member of the Federation of Master Builders and the Guild of Master Craftsmen. All structural work is guaranteed for 5 years.

View completed lofts

We would be delighted to show you any of our recent loft conversions.

Different types of lofts/windows/stairs

Dormers, mansards, hip to gable, Velux windows, tailor made stairs.