Loft Conversion Guide
A loft conversion is a great way of adding extra functionality to your home. You can take an empty attic space and transform it into something that really brings your home to life, such as an office or a gym. However, there are a few factors you’ll need to take into account before you can start the project. In this blog post, we’ll look at whether loft conversions really are a worthwhile investment.
Planning permission — can you avoid it?
If you already have the space available, you can start work without having to cut through all the red tape that usually governs major home improvements. In some cases, a loft conversion does not require planning permission because it has been categorised as a permitted development. Of course, there are some exceptions to the rule, and you should read through this Planning Portal post before you start to ensure your project falls within the guidelines. This regulation will dramatically reduce the time it takes to complete your project.
Increase the value of your home
Not only does a loft conversion provide you with extra space to enjoy in your home, but it also brings about major advantages if you decide to sell up in the future. A well-designed loft conversion is very attractive to potential buyers because it means they will have an extra room to take advantage of, and this could result in extra money ending up in your pocket. The Guardian quoted a study from Nationwide Building Society that found that a loft conversion could add as much as 22% onto the value of the average home — meaning you could make a profit on the initial investment in the future.
Loft conversion drawbacks
One of the main disadvantages of a loft conversion is that considerable investment may be required to get a good quality build. The amount you’ll need to pay will depend on factors like the size of the attic and what you’re planning on using it for, but it’s likely the cost will run into the several thousands, check out the handy calculator tool to get a rough estimation.
Another potential drawback is the reduction in storage space in your home. If you were using the attic as a storage facility, then your items will need to be moved once the conversion work starts. This factor means that you’ll have to find a similar amount of storage space elsewhere in your home.
If you have any more questions about loft conversions and whether they would be suitable for your home, please feel free to get in touch and a member of our team will be happy to guide you through the process further.
Also check out these useful sources for more information:
