Do I need planning permission for my loft conversion?

A number of factors must be taken into consideration when when asking “Do I need planning permission for my loft conversion?”

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

Brentwood Lofts will prepare plans and building calculations and ensure that the necessary notices and permissions are agreed with your local authority