What do you need to know - loft conversion?

Converting your loft into a usable room is a brilliant way to add space to your house without going down the route of an expensive extension.

However, it isn’t without its challenges and, clearly, the last thing you’ll want to do is enter a project like this only to discover it’s more costly than you thought or - worse - that it won’t give you the space you desire.

With that in mind, here are a few key things to take into consideration before you commit to a loft conversion.

Will it add value to your home?

Depending on your future plans, this is an important one.

Not all home improvements add value. Some actually decrease it, therefore think carefully about whether or not a loft conversion will add value before you start. Chances are, it will, but it might be worth seeking advice from an estate agent, first.

How will you light the space?

There’s a couple of options here - you can either install windows (of the Velux kind) or use lighting. You may need both.

Whichever option you choose, there’s obviously going to need to be some form of light up there, and it’ll add to your budget, so make sure you take this into consideration from the start.

Is there any structural work required?

Most loft conversions don’t need any significant structural work undertaking, but it’s best to get an experienced builder up there first for a reliable opinion.

If anything needs reinforcing or extending to make the loft conversion worthwhile, you certainly can’t circumnavigate it, and it could add considerably to your budget.

How much is it going to cost?

Depending on the type of room you want to create in your loft, the cost can range from moderate to very expensive.

Always start with a realistic budget and take into account everything mentioned on this blog. It’s also important to set aside a portion of the budget for unexpected issues or challenges the builders might encounter while converting your loft.

Do you need building regs or planning permission?

Don’t miss out this step; doing so could leave you in hot water later on if you decide to sell the property.

Building regs will probably be needed, and while it’s unlikely you’ll need planning permission, check with your local authority and an experienced architect, first.

How big does it need to be for it to be worthwhile?

What are you planning to do with your loft conversion? Additional bedroom space, kids play areas, man or woman caves - there’s lots of options, but each of them demand a certain amount of space to make them worthwhile.

The last thing you want to do is create a space that is unusable or simply not big enough for the task in hand, so make sure you have the space available before embarking on this project.

Wrapping up

We hope our tips above will help you work out whether a loft conversion is right for you.

If you decide to go ahead, just remember to find the best possible builder for the job to ensure your money is well spent and represents a great investment for the future.