What is a loft conversion?
A loft conversion is the process of converting an empty attic space into a fully functional room. This can be changed into a bedroom, office space, gym or even storage space. A loft conversion is one of the most popular home improvements that take place in the United Kingdom. Carrying out a loft conversion can be very complicated and you will require the neighbour’s Extension Party Wall Notice.
You might be a DIY guru but it is best to leave loft conversions to the professionals. There is a large amount of work that will need to be completed for the loft conversion to be a success. You will need to find a Party Wall Surveyor to issue a party structure notice which is a requirement under section 3 of the Party Wall Act.
This notice is required because there is steel being inserted into the Party Wall for the loft floor. They will also need to look at the neighbours loft conversion Party Wall if one already exists and how the structural plan be altered as a result.
There are many benefits to converting your loft:
- Having a loft conversion can increase the value of your home by 20%. There is no other home improvement that can add more value at the same price.
- A loft conversion can create more room not just with the extra room you receive but around the conversion. You can create storage underneath your new stairs which will relieve the pressure in all the other rooms of the property.
- Having a loft conversion means that you will not need to move home with all the additional moving costs, fees to the solicitors and valuation fees. The cost of moving is currently increasing year on year.
A loft conversion now falls under permitted development rules, this means that you are able to make some changes to your home without planning permission but there are some limitations to this, whilst you are able to move the interior walls, the footprint of the house cannot be altered.
Are you looking to carry out a Loft conversion? Do you require further information into how the works will be affected by the Party Wall Act? Need to find a party wall surveyor in London? Contact Seven One Associates to get help and support today.