Do you need planning permission for your Loft Conversion?

A loft conversion can often be considered permitted development, not requiring an application for planning permission, provided it meets all the necessary criteria and there are no constraints that restrict or remove permitted development rights.

If there are no constraints that limit or remove your permitted development rights then a loft conversion could be considered permitted development if it meets all of the following criteria;

• The new loft space won’t be larger than 40 cubic metres for terraced houses and 50 cubic metres for detached and semi-detached houses.
• The loft conversion doesn’t extend beyond the plane of the existing roof slope at the front of the house (principle elevation).
• The loft conversion does not extend higher than the highest part of the existing roof.
• The loft conversion does not include any verandas, balconies, or raised platforms.
• The loft conversion is made using materials that are similar in appearance to the rest of the house.
• Any side-facing windows must be obscure-glazed (to stop people seeing in and out).
• Any side facing windows must be at least 1.7m above the ground.
• Your home is not located in certain designated areas, including national parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, conservation areas, and World Heritage Sites.
• A roof extension, with the exception of hip-to-gable extensions, must be set back at least 20cm from the original eaves.
• A roof extension must not overhang the outer wall of the original house.

For any loft conversions that is likely to be considered permitted development a lawful development certificate is recommended. This is the only way to get a legal determination that your loft conversion is permitted development. A lawful development certificate will also likely be required should you ever sell the property in future and it protects you from any retrospective planning issues, enforcements or penalties.

If your loft conversion doesn’t meet even one of these criteria not matter how close it is, some form of planning permission will be required whether prior approval or householder planning application.

Additionally, if there are any hidden constraints that limit or remove your permitted development rights, full planning permission may be required even if your project meets all the permitted development criteria.

Unfortunately, there are never any guarantees with planning permission or permitted development. Because ultimately, it is the planning officer assessing your application who will make the legal determination and either approve or reject your application. If your application for a lawful development certificate is rejected then an application for planning permission would be required.

Building regulations approval will likely also be required once planning permission is approved, depending on the extent of the works.

If you would like to find out what is required for your loft conversion, the likelihood of success or the costs associated with applying for planning permission please contact us to speak with one of our expert planning consultants today.