Planning Permission for a Loft Conversion

Can I Get a Loft Conversion Without Planning Permission?

Your local planning authority is required to decide on your loft extension application as promptly as possible. For a straightforward application, the decision should be made within eight weeks, while larger or more complex projects may take up to 13 weeks. The process can take up to 16 weeks if an Environmental Impact Assessment is needed.

Typically, planning permission is valid for three years from the approval date. You can begin work at any time within these three years, even if the project is completed later. If you’ve been given a different time frame, this will be clearly stated in your approval letter.

If you need to submit a planning permission application for your loft conversion, you’ll typically need to pay an application fee. The cost of planning permission can vary significantly.

In England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, fees usually start between £202 and £206 for alterations or extensions to a single house, with prices increasing for more extensive projects.

A dormer loft conversion is a structure that extends vertically from your existing roof slope. In most cases, planning permission isn’t required because it typically doesn’t involve significant changes to your home’s exterior, so the work is generally considered permitted development.

A mansard loft conversion raises the slope of one side of your roof to near vertical, with a flat top. In most cases, this type of conversion will require planning permission because it significantly alters the shape of the roof structure.

If you plan to convert your loft into a usable living space and integrate it into your home, you’ll need to obtain building regulation approval. Loft conversions usually involve several structural changes, which can impact the original stability of the building.

If your loft conversion will be used as a living space, you’ll need to install a permanent staircase that can serve as a fire escape. It needs to meet specific regulations.

Proceeding with Planning Permission and Regulations with Midland Couty Lofts

Midland County Lofts is dedicated to making loft conversions as stress-free as possible for you. We will make sure your conversions meet all legal requirements so that your new space can begin being built as soon as possible and as smoothly as possible.