Planning Your Loft Conversion

From side and rear dormer loft conversions to a host of other loft conversion projects, the experts at MTR Lofts can transform the upper part of any home into one of the most inviting and visually striking rooms in your house.

There are many different types of loft conversions to choose from. Our advisors at MTR Lofts are on hand to visit your home, measure up, and talk you through which options are feasible for your property.

Will I need planning permission for my loft conversion?

On most occasions, MTR Lofts can carry out the construction phase under permitted development, meaning planning permission isn't required. The main exceptions are loft conversions to flats and properties in conservation areas. Loft conversions that exceed permitted development limits — 40 cubic metres on a terraced property, or 50 cubic metres on a semi-detached or detached property — will usually need to go through full planning permission.

Without planning permission, it typically takes around 6–8 weeks to start the construction phase, depending on whether party wall agreements are needed and whether structural calculations and plans are ready. Where planning permission is required, it usually takes 8–12 weeks before building work can begin — again, subject to paperwork such as party wall agreements being in place. Our advisors will guide you on any restrictions or concerns during your site survey.

The Party Wall Act

If your property shares an adjoining wall with a neighbour, a written agreement between both parties is required before any work can begin.

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 requires any property owner sharing a party wall to notify their neighbour of planned work in advance. Because the wall is shared, you'll need your neighbour's written consent via a Party Structure Notice and Acknowledgement Form. Most neighbours agree without issue, but where they don't, here's how it's typically resolved:

• If a neighbour can't be reached to sign the agreement, it becomes the property owner's responsibility to appoint a Party Wall Surveyor on their behalf.
• If you and your neighbour can't agree on the terms, you can jointly appoint an "Agreed Surveyor," whose decision is binding for both parties and results in an award certificate.
• If your neighbour appoints their own surveyor, we strongly advise you appoint your own too. The two surveyors then work together to draw up a contract that satisfies both parties.
• If the two surveyors still can't reach an agreement, a third, independent surveyor is brought in to issue an impartial final award.

Any surveyor costs are typically the responsibility of the property owner.