FAQ

This really depends on the size and type of loft conversion you are intending on having. On average Uk Loft Solutions Ltd can build loft conversions in 8 weeks +/- 2 weeks.

How quickly can you start building on my property?

2 to 4 weeks assuming you have plans, structural designs and party wall notices in place.

What is a party wall agreement and do I need one?

A party wall agreement is required if your home has a wall that is connected to another property on either side. Each neighbour will have to be informed of the proposed works using a party wall notice form at least two calendar months before the intended start of the build. The party wall agreement is there to protect you and your neighbour from issues that might arise due to work done on the party wall. It draws up an agreement between you and your neighbour on what needs to happen if there is a problem. By law, your neighbour can insist you have one before the work starts. At Uk Loft Solutions Ltd, we can advise you on this process and if necessary put you in touch with one of our certified party wall

How long does it take to get plans drawn up?

On average it takes us 4 – 5 weeks from signing the contract to get our client to agree on a set of plans, but of course we have had faster approvals if a client is in a particular hurry.

How long does it take for plans to be approved?

In general 8 weeks.

What is permitted development?

If your property is not in a conservation area or is a flat, you have permitted development rights (PD). This means you can develop your loft space without needing to gain planning permission. Your development will need to keep within the PD constraints i.e. terraced properties are allowed to develop an additional 40 Cubic Meters of extra space. Semi-detached and detached properties 50 Cubic Meters.

What is the difference between permitted development and planning permission?

With planning permission you are asking the council if your proposed scheme is acceptable. It is open to rejection by them and/or your neighbours and will have to follow the local development plan. With permitted development you are asking the council to simply confirm that your scheme fits within the permitted development criteria. The council will issue you a Lawful Development Letter if they agree. Technically you are not required to have the Lawful Development letter in place before the work starts and in fact there is no law stating you have to have it. This allows clients who request it, to start the work without waiting for the Lawful Development Letter thus saving time.

How much head height do I need in my loft to be able to convert it?

As a rule of thumb you need 2.2m between the top of the floor joist of the loft to the bottom of the ridge beam.

What are the different types of loft conversions?

Skylight, rear dormer, L-section Rear Dormer (double dormer), Mansard, L-section Mansard (double Mansard), Hip-to-Gable and Hip-to-Gable Rear Dormer. See our planning section for further details.

How much disruption should I expect with a loft conversion?

Assuming we do not need to lower your ceilings, the disruption is kept to a minimum as the work is confined to the loft space and the heavy work can often be carried out from scaffolding outside your property.

How much does a loft conversion cost?

Most loft conversions will fit within the budget of £30K- £40K depending on the size and type.

What insurances and guarantees do you have in place?

We have public liability, employee’s liability and the most important, contract all risk insurance. Documentation can be provided on request.

Can I visit some loft conversions you have completed in my area?

We cover the majority of the North East and are more than happy to share references with you to contact and visit. There is a high chance there is a loft conversion we have completed in the vicinity of your home.

What areas of the North East do you cover?

Please click here to visit our interactive map of the UK for a comprehensive list of areas we cover. You can also see case studies of loft conversions we have completed in different areas.

Can I convert my loft?

You can check your ridge height with a tape measure, which will give you an indication if the space is convertible. But the only real way to know for sure is to invite one of our specialist surveyors to fully assess your property.

How long does it take to get a quotation?

Once a UK Loft Solutions representative has visited your property and carried out a site survey it will take no longer than 1 week for you to receive a comprehensive quotation. If you have not received your quotation at this time, then please visit your junk email folder or give our team a call on 03334043888.

How long is my quotation valid for?

6 months.