There are many benefits to living in a loft, with the primary one being the large amount of space. But before you can enjoy all that open flooring, there’s a lot of work to be done. One way to maximize your space is through loft conversion, but this entails more than just buying some paint and turning the place into art gallery. Here are 5 things you need to know about quotes for your loft conversion project:
- The Planning Permit
One of the things you’ll have to do is apply for a planning permit, which will specify exactly how much space you have to work with. You’ll need to ensure that your building doesn’t cause any obstruction while permitting, and working out all the paperwork with authorities can be extremely complicated.
- The Building Regulations Approval
The second step is finding out if your building will be compliant with current building regulations, as well as the London Fire Brigade’s recommendations. Your loft conversion project will require you to replace any combustible materials in order for it to comply with fire regulations, so contact an architect and ask how this will affect your project.
- The Work Permit
Once you’ve got the plans approved, you’ll need to apply for a work permit if you want to start work on your loft conversion project. You’ll need to get building work underway before your approval is given and as you’re working on the loft conversion, it’s important that you take out the correct insurance and register with your local authority.
- Loft Conversion Quotes from Local Builders
Once your work has been completed, there are five things you’ll need in order to sell your loft conversion, so be sure to call around a few places before settling on a quote. You’ll need to speak to building contractors and architects to get an idea of the general costs for each aspect of your loft conversion, including complex design alterations.
- The Contractors
The last thing you’ll need in order to complete your loft conversion is a contractor or builder who can do the job for you. It’s important that you get a builder who has experience converting lofts and knows exactly how long the work will take. This is because there are several hidden costs that can arise during your project, including various fees which could ultimately mean that some items won’t be replaced within the time limit set by the local authority.
- The Value of Your Loft Conversion
Once you’ve finished your loft conversion, it’s important to make sure that you’ve worked out the value that your loft conversion is going to fetch. A good builder will provide you with an honest valuation, but it’s a good idea to do a little bit of research into the sort of price point that other conversions have gone for in the area. There are many websites where agents can upload information about their projects, including those which have been sold in the past.
Just because you have an open space in your loft conversion, it doesn’t mean you can use it as your main living space. Despite the added space and natural light which could be used for leisure activities, the local authorities will ensure your loft conversion doesn’t cause any obstruction of other people’s properties or impacts on the building structures. So if you’re looking for a way to maximize the space allotted to you, loft conversion is very much worth considering.