Commonly Asked Questions

Can my property be converted?

Not all lofts can be converted; in some cases it is not practical. Your main concern is the head height of your existing property. Ideally you need a minimum of 2.2m head height in your existing loft space. This should be measured from the APEX of the roof to the top of the existing joist. Remember you will loose some of this height when your new floor and ceilings are installed.

It is still possible to carryout a loft conversion if your head height is tight. Your existing ceilings can be lowered or your structural steel work can be lowered into your first floor ceiling.

Your property must have sufficient load bearing walls to support the extra burden. This is only an issue when converting bungalows, where the foundations are not deep enough and there are also no internal load bearing walls.

A member of the Apex Lofts Team will be able to advise you and hopefully find a solution so that you can experience the benefits of a loft conversion.

Do I need Planning Permission?

A number of factors must be taken into consideration when deciding whether or not your property needs planning permission.

You would not normally need to obtain planning permission for your loft conversion providing that:

The house is a single family dwelling and not a flat or maisonette
The proposed extension or dormer window should not be raised above the highest part of the roof
The slope of any part of the roof, which faces a highway, must not be extended
The loft conversion does not amount to more than 40 cubic meters in the case of a terraced house or 50 cubic meters in any other case. (This is measured externally)
When combined with any other existing extension to a house exceed the permitted development allowance

You will need to apply for planning permission when:

Your property is a flat
The existing ridge line to your roof needs to be raised
The slope or any part of the roof which faces a highway is to be altered
The proposed loft conversion exceeds 40 cubic meters in the case of a terraced house or 50 cubic meters in any other case. (This is measured externally)
When the proposed loft conversion combined with any other existing extension to a house exceed the permitted development allowance
The building is listed as being of special architectural or historic interest
The building is situated in a conservation area
The permitted development rights of your property are restricted by conditions attached to a previous planning permission or your property deeds
An "Article 4 Direction" covers the building

Will you arrange the local authority permission?

Yes, we will prepare plans and building calculations and ensure that the necessary notices and permissions are agreed with your local authority

How long will my conversion take?

Depending on the size of your conversion, building work is normally completed within four to six weeks. The expected time scale of your conversion will be confirmed to you before work commences on your property.

Will there be much disturbance to my current day-to-day living whilst my conversion is being carried out?

Obviously there will be some disturbance, however we try to minimise it by consulting with the customer throughout the conversion so that they are fully aware of the work in progress.

Can I see a completed conversion Apex Lofts has carried out?

Yes, we would be pleased to show you one of our completed conversions. We will put you in direct touch with one of our many satisfied customers.

Will a loft conversion add value to my property?

Yes, it has been proven that by converting your loft area into additional living space the price of your property will increase.