Loft conversion advice pls

[Emski]

We're in the early stages of planning a loft conversion and would really appreciate some advice on a few points:

I understand you don't need planning permission for a rear dormer. But what is the likelihood of getting planning permission for a front dormer too? There's a mixture of properties along our road (ie no uniformity to housing), with a pretty ugly front dormer next door - although I don't think it got planning permission.?

Our loft height is close to what I think is the minimum recommended for a conversion - 2metres. Does anyone have experience of having a low attic conversion, and does it feel cramped for a master bedroom? Any tips on maximising the space??

It's going to be very tight as to whether we can fit in exactly what we want. I'm unwilling to enter into a contract without knowing that we can achieve our wishes, but we've been told by our preferred company that although it 'should' be possible they won't provide drawings before we sign, and these wouldn't be accurate enough to provide a guarantee still anyway. Apparently they can't confirm the finished ceiling height until the suspended floor is in place. This seems a little too far down the line for my liking! It's not worth us doing this project unless we can get the layout we want. Any advice please??

Many thanks to anyone taking the time to help!

[Jeremy]

I'd say the minimum height should be around 2.1m. And you have to bear in mind that they will need to put in thick steel beams to build the new suspended floor own. So it sounds like you may have to lower the ceilings in your top floor by 30cm or so.

[red devil]

Some good general advice on extensions, inc loft conversions, for the layperson...

http://www.homebuilding.co.uk/advice/existing-homes/extending/20-things-you-need-know-extending-your-home

ETA: Since the article was published, PD rights have been temporarily relaxed with respect to rear extensions.

[LondonMix]

Yes, lowering the floor is an option so you can always create the space you need and while its more expensive, within the general costs of doing a loft conversion, its not that significant an extra cost-- just very messy according to a friend who had to do the same.

Planning really don't like front dormers but if there are already a few on your street you may have a chance though it will really depend on the officer you get.

[red devil]

LondonMix Wrote:

-------------------------------------------------------

> Planning really don't like front dormers but if

> there are already a few on your street you may

> have a chance though it will really depend on the

> officer you get.

Precedent is often over-egged. Planning Law constantly gets amended over time, so what has been allowed in the past doesn't mean it will be allowed now, or in the future. Current planning thinking is that front dormers are definitely to be frowned upon...

[LondonMix]

I totally agree with that. I should have said a slim chance. However, if a front dormers are very common on the street, it could be argued that doing one can't be considered "not in keeping".

[red devil]

Agree, although I don't think that applies to the typical ED street. More likely in contextually sensitive areas like Dulwich....

[Emski]

Thanks for the advice. Is it normal for builders to expect you to enter into a contract without having agreed on plans first?

[motorbird83]

Yes if you expect them to make the plans. Drawing up plans and doing a measurement survey is expensive. You either need to pay to have it done separately and then engage a builder or sign a contract and have a builder work for you from start to finish.