Choosing the right loft and garage conversion for your home is very important and can be dependent upon local planning regulations.  The most popular types of conversion are:

Dormer

This style of conversion is best for properties where the existing roof space would provide insufficient headroom in the finished room.  It involves creating additional space to extending the walls up through the roof a short way to create a flat ceiling inside.  This makes the new room more practical, especially if you wish to incorporate an en-suite.

Bonnet Dormer

Some Local Authorities only allow full dormers to be erected at the rear of a property, and although it is very difficult to achieve planning permission for these at the front, it is sometimes possible that they allow bonnet dormers at the front and they can be a very attractive addition to the property.

Velux

This style of conversion is appropriate for houses where the existing loft already provides adequate headroom, albeit for a smaller room, maybe a single bedroom or study.  This option is less disruptive than a Dormer conversion and is less likely to require planning permission, although we will check this with the Local Authority. 

Hip to Gable

This type of conversion is only suitable for houses that are already hip-ended.  For this loft adaptation, we extend the existing roof in line with the external wall, creating plenty of extra floor space, often enough for two/three rooms and a bathroom. 

Before you decide which style you prefer, we will visit you to discuss all your requirements and we will be happy to advise you which type of loft conversion is most appropriate for your home.

Garage Conversions

Planning Permission :  Under new regulations that came into effect from 1 October 2008 the permitted development regime covering garage conversions changed and planning permission is not usually required, providing the work is internal and does not involve enlarging the building.

Sometimes permitted development rights have been removed from some properties with regard to garage conversions and therefore contact with the local planning authority would be made before proceeding.

Building Regulations :  The conversion of a garage, or part of a garage, into habitable space will normally require approval under the Building Regulations.