Typically, loft conversions do not require planning permission except in certain situations. They’re usually covered under what’s known as Permitted Development. Certain building works like loft conversion, rear extension and conservatories are granted planning permission by local authorities. Permitted Development, however, gives you a free range to improve your home without having any issues from the councils or regulations. Before your planned loft conversion can be covered under Permitted Development, there are some certain criteria that must be met. This criteria includes the following:
✓ The extension must not go beyond the existing slope of the roof at the front of the house.
✓ The loft space converted must not go beyond 40 cubic metres in a terraced house.
✓ The roof’s height must not be increased by the extension.
✓ The loft space converted must not reach beyond 50 cubic metres in a detached or semi detached house.
✓ The plan for the extension mustn’t involve structures like balconies, verandas or anything other structures of this nature.
✓ The roof extension should be positioned as far back as possible or at least 20cm from the existing eaves.
✓ The side that faces the window openings should be at least 1.7m beyond the floor and the windows should also be obscured.
✓ The roof extension must not overhang the existing roof or wall of the house.
✓ The materials that are to be used must be similar or the same to the materials that has already been used on the house’s exterior.
However, you should bear in mind that there are some properties that are exempt from Permitted Development. Examples of these type of properties include conservation areas, Areas Of Outstanding Natural Beauty and World Heritage sites. Permitted Development does not also provide coverage for listed buildings.
