Loft conversions contain multiple aspects

Where a traditional extension is a case of building something from scratch that is fit-for-purpose, there is a good chance that your loft was never designed with conversion in mind.

This makes designing and planning your loft extension tricky. Structurally there is a lot that needs to be taken into account. The interior space will need to be planned carefully and the risks of getting it wrong can do untold damage.

According to architecture firm Resi, some of the risks associated with not getting architect’s drawings can include:

• Planning refusal
• Penalties, if permitted development rights haven’t been followed
• Poor design, which can cause damage to your house price
• Extra costs from structural engineers and contractors, who will likely have to produce drawings similar to those done by an architect to start their own jobs

These multiple aspects require multiple experts, with varied expertise and regulations to meet. Building control, structural engineers, planning departments, environmental officers, electricians, plumbers…the list goes on.

Getting an architect involved at an early stage can help you to address and control the different elements required for a loft conversion – safety, design, compliance and aesthetics. They are a great facilitator for all of these essentials.

Adding value in the long run

It is easy to think of using an architect as purely for design and compliance. But looking at the bigger picture of your home is also essential when you are considering a loft conversion.

Poorly designed loft extensions and conversions can damage the re-sale price of your property. It is not just a case of them looking clunky or at-odds with the rest of the house, but by failing to adhere to building regulations (all of which your architect will be aware of), it means that you can’t legally add to the floor space of your home or declare it as an extra room.

This might not be an immediate problem for you, but it could be a huge problem when you come to sell your home. Mortgage companies may refuse to lend the desired amount to borrowers, which will ultimately result in you selling for a lower price. Home insurers may also refuse to cover it for both buildings and contents insurance, meaning that you will be paying out for indemnity policies before you can sell.

Adding in complications due to an incorrect loft conversion can drag out an already lengthy sales process. By using an architect, you will be safeguarding yourself against all of these potential problems.

Of course, there are plenty of loft conversion specialist companies who will provide a one-stop-shop for designing, planning and building your extension.

However you decide to plan and build your conversion, getting experts involved will help you make the most of your money – for your immediate spend and your return on investment.

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