New planning rules on the way for loft conversions and home extensions

Loft conversions and home extensions of a certain size and type are already allowed without requiring planning permission under permitted development rules, but housing secretary Michael Gove recently announced that these rules could be relaxed further.

Towards the end of July, the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities revealed it would launch a new consultation on permitted development rights, which will include a consultation on how to best support homeowners who want to extend their properties – and is expected to lead to a relaxation of permitted development rules.

Part of this consultation will also look at relaxing rules around converting space above shops and offices into residential accommodation, as well as exploring how to make it easier to convert old department stores into housing.

While there are no new rules as yet, it seems that the intention is to make it easier for homeowners to extend their properties and carry out loft conversions in Poole, Christchurch, Bournemouth and elsewhere in the UK while balancing the needs of the local neighbourhood.

Of course, permitted development rights are different in conservation areas and areas of outstanding natural beauty – which we are lucky to have a good number of in Dorset – so it is always advisable to check whether your house falls into any of these areas before going ahead with a large-scale refurbishment project. Our blog about what conservation areas are may be helpful if your property falls within one. 

As Homebuilding & Renovating revealed towards the end of last year, loft conversions are one of the most popular ways for UK homeowners to add more space to their properties. The news provider described loft conversions as a “cost-effective way of adding space” but noted that it’s important to seek advice about the most appropriate type of loft conversion for your property.

The height and pitch of your roof both affect what type of conversion can be carried out, as does the roof structure itself and whether it contains any obstructions like chimneys or water tanks. It’s recommended that you have at least 2.2m of usable space in your loft. Generally, if your roof pitch is 35 degrees or greater, you’ll have the room required for a conversion.

There are several types of loft conversion you can choose, although which is most appropriate is typically dictated by the space available to you and type of property you own. Our experienced builders will be able to assess your property and tell you whether a dormer, hip-to-gable or mansard conversion is most suitable.

We also work closely with architects to ensure that any such project complies with the relevant building and fire safety regulations, as well as making sure that it truly does make the best use of this space in your home and deliver the extra room you are looking for.

Our affiliate architect is able to not only survey your home and design your conversion, but will also apply for a lawful development certificate and, once this is granted, will draw up detailed designs for the space, while working closely with our construction team to ensure the working drawings are followed and building regulations are met.

To learn more about how we can help you with your loft conversion in Bournemouth, Poole or Christchurch, get in touch with us today. We are always happy to discuss any home improvement project and provide a quote for our team to carry out the work.