Loft Conversion Planning Permission And Permitted Development

The good news is that loft conversion planning permission is very rarely required when a householder is looking to convert their loft thanks to the new permitted development rules.

Permitted development is where householders have rights to develop their properties without having to apply for planning permission.

There are limitations to the kind of development that can be carried out without planning permission, and these have been put into law by parliament. It should also be understood that flats and maisonettes do not have permitted development rights.  It should also be understood that planning permission is completely seperate from the Building Regulations and that all loft conversions will need building regulations approval.

The current regulations governing permitted development date back to October 8, 2010. Most importantly for those contemplating carrying out a loft conversion in their property is the fact that ordinarily there is no obligation to apply for loft conversion planning permission, providing certain conditions are met.

Loft conversions meet the permitted development criteria when no external volume or projection is being created. There are also volume limitations for the conversion. It must not exceed 50 cubic metres for detached and semi-detached houses, and 40 cubic metres for terraced houses. The permitted development criteria also do not allow you to make changes to the roof front of your property if it faces on to a thoroughfare.

The permitted development regulations allow you to install a velux roof lights, though the rules were tightened in 2010. The projection of any roof light must not exceed 150mm. To remain within the permitted development regulations any roof extension must not be higher than the existing roof ridge, and a dormer window fitted within the roof slope cannot be closer than 200mm to the eaves.

Any side windows should be obscure glazed and any sash opening should be 1.7m or more above the floor level. The permitted development regulations for loft conversions also do not allow you to erect verandas, balconies, or raised platforms.

It is always advisable to check with your local authority whether your intended loft conversion comes within the permitted development criteria. For instance, if your property is within a designated area or is a listed building you may well have to apply for loft conversion planning permission.