Having your loft transformed into a brand-new premise is the easiest way for you to expand your home and get some extra comfort. Even though the conversion process is relatively simple, mistakes are likely to happen, so you should approach the task reasonably. Here are a few typical mistakes people make when they decide on a loft conversion. Make sure that you get informed and avoid any of these mistakes so that your project could be a true success:

• Don’t assume each loft can be converted – there are some basic requirements you need to meet so that the new room can be legal. Many people often realise that their lofts can’t be remade when it’s too late and the project has already started. Did you know that you should check if your loft has a head height of at least 2.3 meters? That’s an essential requirement your loft should inevitably meet. In some cases you have the chance to raise the height, but under no circumstances should you get involved with a task you can’t complete.

• Don’t skip on the planning permission – indeed, usually, loft conversion projects don’t need to be approved by the local council to be legal. Yet depending on the type of home you own, planning permission might be necessary, otherwise, you shouldn’t go on with the conversion. It is a common mistake for homeowners, to begin with, the project before they consult with the authorities whether their place is convertible. That’s why this is a step you should never skip. Ask your local council if you are obligated to apply for permission or your rights to convert the loft have already been granted. This way you would ensure that the improvement your property is about to go through is within the law.

• Don’t make it a DIY project – are you an expert builder? Do you have any experience in renovating an entire premise from scratch? If not, you should better hire a professional contractor to tackle your loft conversion. Even though loft conversions are claimed to be relatively simple tasks, there are many details only experts are familiar with. It is great that you have faith in your skills, but don’t make the mistake to go for a DIY project, unless you are qualified for the job. Possible issues you may face during the conversion would cost you lots of time, money and stress. So once you make sure your loft space is suitable for conversion, search for a professional company to complete the project.

• Don’t rush into hiring a contractor – no doubt you want your loft to be transformed into a brand-new room as quickly as possible, but take your time to find the best contractor for the purpose. People who have no experience in remodelling their homes often fall victim to making snap decisions. Finding a reliable loft conversion contractor usually takes a while, but it is worth the effort. Read online reviews, ask friends and family or demand to see completed projects – one way or another, you should get the necessary recommendations for the company you intend to hire before you sign a contract.

• Don’t overlook the interior – when it comes to a loft conversion, the interior of the future premise is just as crucial as all legal aspects and the need to rely on a proven contractor. If you fail to plan the goal of the room, as well as its furniture and accessories, chances are you end up with a disappointing project. Since interior design is not something that comes naturally to everyone, perhaps hiring an expert to deal with the job is worth considering.

Any of these five loft conversion mistakes is capable of ruining your project. Now that you are prepared for steps that may go wrong, you have a greater chance to tackle the task smoothly.

© Fast Building Company

Most people are not always content with their space due to different reasons. It may be because of the size of the family, a need for more privacy, social reasons, or any other reasons. Thankfully, there is an answer, Loft conversion. It may seem trivial but loft conversion may cost a whole lot of money, and that is why if you want to do it, you have to do it right. People make mistakes in their loft conversion, and they live to regret it.

House prices in most countries are so high that it is sometimes difficult for some people to move out and get a new house. This leaves them with little or no option than to stay in their current homes and try to make adjustments to them. A loft conversion may add a new room or rooms to an already existing house. The new room or rooms may be used for different reasons, be it a den, an office, a playroom for kids, or even another room. Some of the blunders people make while trying to convert their lofts are:

1. Not deciding on the right contractor for the job: Loft conversions are very special projects, and so it requires expert hands. When you want to convert a loft, there is a great need to let a professional handle the job. One of the ways you can get these kinds of professionals is through personal recommendations or online community groups, places where you can hear people voice their honest opinions and experiences. However, it is also possible to check reviews from several construction websites.

Once you begin to contact builders, you should always ask for references, maybe of completed projects and customer reviews. You should also keep in mind that the best contractors may not be the cheapest. Loft conversions can also take some time, so it should not be a rushed project. Around five to six weeks should be enough to convert lofts. You should also be prepared to accommodate people in your home daily until the loft conversion process is finished. You should also establish a clear relationship between yourself and the contractors so you would be able to ask any relevant questions you may have.

1. Not properly checking if the property is suitable for the process: Most times, converting your loft is not the problem. The problem is knowing if the loft can be converted. There are requirements a property has to meet before loft conversion is possible. One of those requirements is the head height of at least 2.3 metres. It is possible to raise the heights in some few cases, but the standard height for a loft conversion is at least 2.3 metres.
   
   
2. Not seeking planning permission: Most of the time, planning permission is not needed for you to carry out a loft conversion since it falls under permitted development category. It is one of the exciting things about loft conversions. But the truth is you may need to check and see if you need one and stop assuming. If your loft conversion plan involves altering or extending your roof space in a way that exceeds conditions and limits, you may need planning permission. How do you do that? You need to get in touch with your local council to confirm if there is a need to apply for planning permission. It is very important if you occupy a flat or period property, or reside in a conservation area.
   
   
3.   The act of ignoring people who live around you: Do you live in a terraced or semi-detached property? Or do you share a wall with some of your neighbours? Then, you need to tell them of your loft conversion plans and obtain a valid legal document before you continue your construction or loft conversion. Remember, the neighbours you share a party wall with has the right to dispute your construction plans so you may need to communicate reasonably with them to avoid misunderstandings, delays or issues.
   
   
4. Not putting the design details into consideration: It is at this point that you may need professional help from an expert in a loft conversion. You should know a thing or two about buildings to consider your options before you start the project. That way, you will be delighted with what you see at the end of the project.

Converting your loft may be a little stressful, but it is a better alternative to acquiring a new property. It is especially more comfortable if you own the house or property. That way, you will not need to seek permission from anyone to do whatever you want with your property. Always seek the professionals and know that quality does not come cheap.

© Fast Building Company