Do You Need Planning Permission For A Loft Conversion?

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Loft Conversion?

Do you need planning for a loft conversion?  If you’re thinking of converting your loft, you may be wondering if you need planning permission. It’s important to know whether you’ll need it before you begin the work, particularly as it can take on average 8 weeks to gain consent.

For most loft conversions, planning permission isn’t required, with this type of building work generally falling under permitted development rights. However, if your conversion plans go beyond the criteria set out in the permitted development rights; for example, you’re extending or increasing the roof space, planning permission will be required. You’ll also need to adhere to stringent building regulations to ensure that building work is carried out safely.

Is planning permission required?

It’s a good idea to get an experienced builder in Aberdeen to confirm whether you need planning permission for your loft conversion. However, it shouldn’t be required if the proposed building work satisfies certain conditions.

  • The conversion doesn’t reach beyond the outmost part of the existing roof slope.
  • The conversion isn’t higher than the highest section of the roof.
  • The materials used look similar to the existing house.
  • The conversion doesn’t include balconies, verandas, or raised platforms.
  • Any side-facing windows are obscure-glazed (for example, patterned or frosted so people can’t see in)
  • The property isn’t a listed building, built in a conservation area or designated land (for example, on a national park or Area of Outstanding National Beauty).

Keep in mind that these limits and conditions for loft conversions only apply to houses. If you live in another property type, such as a flat, maisonette, converted house, a house created through the permitted development right to change use, or any other building, you will need to seek planning permission. If you do need to apply for planning permission, you’ll need to pay a fee. A householder application fee is generally 202 for alterations made to a single dwelling house.

Find out if you need planning permission

Knowing whether or not you need planning permission for a loft conversion in Aberdeen can be difficult. For this reason, it’s a good idea to contact a local builder to provide you with professional advice and guidance. If you require alterations that go beyond the above limits and conditions, you’ll need to contact your local authority to apply for planning permission. Fortunately, Steen Property Developments can do this on your behalf, acquiring all the necessary permissions to construct your dream loft conversion. You don’t need to worry a thing when you hire our company, with our team of highly experienced tradesmen providing a complete loft conversion service from start to finish.

Feel free to get in touch for a free consultation, click here

Check out our Facebook page for other useful update and more of our previous works

If you would like more information on how much value a loft conversion can add your property, check out this blog on our news page

Back To Top