Q. I am in desperate need of some extra space and toying with the idea of converting the Loft in my house to a bedroom. Where do I stand with regards to the local planning authority, do I need to get planning permission for this?
A. A loft conversion along with the building of a garage, a porch or a small conservatory are what’s known as a permitted developments and do not require planning permission from the local planning authority, unless they are in a conservation area or a listed building. However, it does require building regulation approval. If this approval is not obtained and the building is in serious breach of regulations action would be in the form of having to comply with the regulations and that may mean expensive work to upgrade and rectify deficiencies. Converting the loft is definitely cost effective in obtaining extra space compared with the cost of moving home in order to obtain just another bedroom. It will also add value to your current property.