What are those Blunders People Make when Converting their Lofts?
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
