Loft conversion height has always been a crucial part of homes in London. A few homes have an absolute attic, not a converted one. However, it takes a lot of skills and planning before converting a loft. Additionally, you can have many conversion choices. You can convert it into a library, a gym, a bedroom, or office space. However, this article has brought forward a crucial type of loft conversion that can be a great option to add space. Low headroom loft conversions have been in practice for years, and we have a complete guide on loft conversion with low headroom for you. Let’s get started!
How to convert loft?
You might think low roof loft conversion is easy and cheap, but it depends on various factors. Sometimes more extensive conversions take less time and low cost than lower ones. However, some things are necessary to carry out the process when talking about the low headroom loft conversion.
Lowered ceilings
London is an actual image of the Victorian era. If you have a property of Victorian design, then you must be aware of the lack of height of ceiling for a loft conversion. In this case, you cannot convert the loft into a bedroom or study space. You may consider the options available for low ceiling small loft conversion. I am sure the results will be promising and awe-striking. However, adding a whole new floor to your house can cost you a lot, so think wisely before starting the process and know what budget you have.
If you lower the ceilings in the rooms beneath the loft, this could negatively impact the upper level of the house.
Roof lift
If you opt for a roof lift during low headroom loft conversions, you may require planning permission. The height of the roof can’t be raised structurally on some types of houses, such as terraced houses, so planning permission is denied due to the changes having a significant impact on the adjacent properties. Nevertheless, raising or elevating the roof pitch will likely cause less disruption to the building’s internal structures than lowering the ceilings.
What could be the estimated cost?
Low headroom loft conversions take thousands of £. Therefore, you must be careful about how your architect will do the conversion at lower rates.
For example, adding a few skylights and upgrading the floor and insulation in a simple roofline Velux loft conversion could cost just £15,000. In comparison, the average cost of a spacious dormer roof extension is between £35,000 and £45,000.
Additionally, loft conversions can be constructed off-site and then lowered into place by a crane, making this a time-efficient and economical project. All the electrics, plumbing, windows, and doors are assembled in the factory ahead of time. Roofs are tiled on-site and will cost between £50,000 and £60,000, depending on the size and type of enclosure chosen for the interior. It will likely take about a month to complete the new roof, including removing the old one and installing the new one.
Do you need building regulations?
The loft conversion must have a height of 2.2 metres from the floor to the ceiling joists. A functional space with a ceiling height of at least 1.9 metres will result.
It is also essential to consider where the permanent staircase will be located. As a health and safety requirement for all loft conversions, you should consider this when planning your project to avoid future problems.
Does it require planning permission?
It is mandatory to ask for permission when you are planning to extend your house to a certain extent. For instance, if you want to raise the ceiling a little bit, you must ask for government permission. If your permission gets rejected, you will not be allowed to do it. As a citizen of London, you will have to stick to the rules.
You should be aware of the following planning permission regulations:
- As mentioned previously, sometimes planning permission is rejected. It happens when you have a terraced loft or a semi-detached house as your house will be connected to the other homes, and construction at your place will require demolition of their space.
- You will need to take planning permission if you are extending on the ground or not means if you are adding a balcony, you will need permission for that too.
- It may seem weird, but some regulations involve the strict rule of the same material and colour used for neighbouring houses.
- There is a 40 cubic metre limit for terraced houses and a 50 cubic metre limit for detached and semi detached houses upon request.
- You can give your converted loft a little more headroom by using thinner insulation. However, check the regulations for your area since sometimes you have to have a minimum thickness.
Is my home worth more after I convert my loft?
Addition to a house contributes to the addition of its value. Doing low headroom loft conversions may increase its value to 15% or 20%, which is relatively more. If you invest your money in low headroom loft conversions, then make sure that the place is usable; otherwise, it will only be a waste of money and will not even add to the value of your home. Moreover, you may consult a loft conversion expert to get his advice. This way, you can make better use of your loft.
Choosing a good architect for Low headroom loft conversions
You will need an experienced and well-recognized construction service for your loft conversion with low headroom. It is best to search for some good companies around you and then shortlist them according to their services and reviews. You can also ask your friends and neighbours about a good constructor. Ask to see examples of previous work when talking with an architect or builder. A reputable conversion company will provide you with photographs, and some may even arrange visits so you can talk to customers and see their conversions up close. . You can also consider Powerpillar constructions and renovations in London as we are the most trusted team of architects. We can turn your dreams into reality by dedication to work and a highly qualified team.
