Loft Conversion FAQ

Below you will find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about loft conversions and the process. If there is anything not answered below or you would like information on any of the loft conversion services we offer please contact us on

(01772) 837 648


We are a long established family run loft conversion company serving Preston and the surrounding areas in the North West

How will I know if my loft can be converted?
This is dependant on the height of the roof ridge. If you were to stand in the centre of the roof and measure from the top of the existing ceiling joists to the ridge board at the apex of the roof and you have a minimum of 2.2 metres, then the loft can be converted. We’d only be happy to discuss and advise you, and visit your home to undertake a free site survey
Will I need Planning Permission for my loft conversion?
All houses have permitted development rights from the local authority. If the property has never had an extension then a loft conversion may not need planning permission as no permitted development has been used. If the property has been extended then the extension would have to be calculated and subtracted from the permitted development allowance. If there is insufficient allowance, then planning permission will have to be applied for. All proposed loft conversions will need to meet the latest building regulations. North West Loft Conversions can help and advise you in all areas of planning permission.
Will Plans need to be drawn up for my loft conversion?
Yes, this is needed by the local authority building regulations. All work must be verified by structural engineers and authority inspectors before construction can commence. North West Loft Conversions again can manage all planning aspects of the project on your behalf. Roof enlargements and alterations such as loft conversion are permitted providing that they do not exceed the highest part of the existing roof and do not materially alter the shape of the dwelling
What if my planning application is rejected?
If planning permission is rejected by the local authority then we will discuss other feasible options with you to get your loft conversion underway.
Will a loft conversion add value to my home?
A loft conversion will significantly add value to your home and is one of the best investments you can make to your property not to mention all the added extra room you will gain.
How long does a Loft Conversion take?
Typically loft conversions timescale will differ with each property and the complexity of the project. This is dependant on the size of the loft, type of conversion and any pre-maintenance work that will have to be carried out. The conversion will typically take place 4 to 6 weeks from date of permission is granted and the conversion itself should take approximately 6 weeks before being fully completed.
How quickly can work commence?
When we start any building work on your loft conversion it will depend on a few factors such as our current workflow and completion of any planning beforehand. Usually we can start work on your loft conversion within 3 months from the initial agreed proposal.
Will there be much disruption to our daily lives?
A building project such as a loft conversion will have some impact on the daily routine of the household at some stage depending on the scale and type of the project involved. The way we plan out our work schedules is to keep disruption at a minimum where possible. We will also keep you regularly informed and give good notice of major work and impact to prepare the household. We recognise that trust is important and will safeguard every client’s privacy and intrusion rights.
What are our payment arrangements?
A deposit will be required to secure the loft conversion development, which will be 10% of the overall quoted price for the project. Then payments will be required on a step by step process as work is carried out and completed, so you can verify you’re happy with the progress made. Everything will be detailed in the initial proposal after we have assessed your property.
Which geographical areas does our business cover?
North West Loft Conversions primarily serve the local community of Preston and surrounding areas including Garstang, Hambleton, Ashton-on-Ribble, Fulwood, Ingol, Lea, Ribbleton and the Fylde Coast of Blackpool, Lytham St Annes, Thornton Cleveleys and Bispham. We can carry out loft conversions in other areas of the North West but please contact us for a quotation.
Can I see a completed Loft Conversion?
We are very proud of the loft conversions we have carried out over the last 25 years. Should you wish to view completed loft conversions in your area please contact us to arrange this.
How will I know which Loft Conversion is most suitable for me?
The type of conversion could be dependent on the layout or style of the property. Contact us today for a free consultation where we can advise you on the best loft conversion for your property.
Will you arrange plumbing and electrical Installation?
Yes, at North West Loft Conversions we offer a comprehensive service and we will provide plumbing and electrical installation to make any loft conversion as quick and easy as possible. We would always recommend using our own team for all services because they are specialists in loft conversions and building extensions.
Are loft conversions built in the winter, as well as summer months?
Loft conversions can be built all year round so no need to worry if you choose to have the building work carried out during the winter months.
Do you install Velux Windows?
A variety of Velux windows can be installed and we will happily advise on which ones would be best suited for your loft conversion and property.
What are Permitted Development Rights?
Permitted Development Rights come with most houses, and they enable you to build a certain additional volume without planning permission. Permitted Development Rights enable you to extend up to 15% of the existing house in volume, or 70 cubic metres, whichever is greater. For terraced houses, this is reduced to 10% or 50m, in both cases, the maximum enlargement is 115 cubic metres, the volume is reduced to 10% or 50 cubic metres within a conservation area. The extensions must be no higher than the existing house. Roof enlargements and alterations such as loft conversion are permitted providing that they do not exceed the highest part of the existing roof and do not materially alter the shape of the dwelling. Loft dormers are permitted if it adds less than 50 cubic metres to the volume of the roof space for detached and semi-detached houses (40 cubic metres in terraced houses). The dormer must not face the highway and it must not be higher than the existing roofline. If your planned loft does transgress on any of these points, it doesn’t mean that it is prohibited, but you will have to apply for planning permission. Any previous roof space addition has to be included in the calculation and building control inspectorate will always be involved. We will be happy to help you and advise on the above areas during the project. Simply contact us today for free loft advice and planning.

Unsure which loft conversion you can have for your property? Contact us to find out

(01772) 837 648