Loft conversions are not always the 'easy' option when extending your house. This page explains some of the things you will need to consider when planning your conversion. You are advised to consult a professional to prepare plans for you, when making your Building Regulation application.
Structural Stability
The existing ceiling will usually need to be strengthened to take the new loadings imposed by using the space. It is likely that new floor joists will be required and unless there are load-bearing walls beneath, steel beams will need to be designed by a Structural Engineer.
Any alterations to the existing roof for example, removal of purlin struts, will also need to be considered by the engineer.
Fire
The existing ceilings may need to be upgraded to improve their fire resistance.
A mains operated smoke detection will need to be provided to cover all the storeys within the dwelling.
The new storey must have a suitable escape route in case of fire. This may be simply a large window or roof light located in the appropriate position but where the new floor is more than 4.5 meters above the ground level a protected escape route is required as well. This involves a staircase that leads from the new storey direct to the front door without passing through another room. All the doors to habitable rooms, new and existing, leading onto the staircase will need to be self-closing and some will need to be fire doors. It may be necessary to change or upgrade existing doors to fire doors. Any glazing on the escape route will also need to be fire-resisting glazing.
Ventilation
All new habitable rooms will require adequate windows for ventilation.
Bathrooms and shower rooms will require extractor fans.
Staircase
There are regulations regarding the construction of the staircase that must be followed. It is essential to check that there will be sufficient space to install a staircase. 1.9m minimum headroom is required at the centre of the pitch line to the staircase and you need to make sure this can be achieved.
Thermal Insulation
The walls and roof to the converted space will need to incorporate insulation. There are minimum standards that need to be met and this may reduce the headroom available within the roof space.
Sound Insulation
Sound insulation will be required to the floor of the converted space and it may also be necessary to upgrade any party walls within the existing roof space.
Drainage
You will need to check if you are able to connect any new drainage pipes into your existing drainage system.
Energy Efficiency
Any new radiators must be provided with thermostatic valves. Energy efficient light fittings must also be fitted in 1 in every 3 rooms created.
Electricity
If the electrical work involves work to a controlled fitting for example within a bathroom/shower room or providing a new ring back to the circuit board the work must either be carried out by an Approved Electrical Contractor or an additional fee paid to Stroud District Council to have our Electrician check the installation. You will need to discuss this with your electrician.
Party Wall
If you are going to be carrying out work to the Party Wall you will have to comply with the Party Wall Act and will need to notify your neighbour of the works giving them adequate time in which to respond.
Planning Permission
If your house is listed or if you will be forming a dormer you may need planning permission and should therefore contact the Planning Department for further advice in this respect.
If you require any further advice on the Building Regulations please contact the Building Control section by phoning 01453 754518/6 or email building.control@stroud.gov.uk.
