The original 2013 Larger Home Extension scheme (after May 2019) is now here to stay.

Initially the 2013 government scheme was introduced to encourage and improve the building economy and expected to last for a temporary period of 3 years. The scheme is now made permanent and householders will be able to permanently build larger single storey rear extensions under permitted development planning rights.

The size limits of the larger home extension scheme remain increased from 4 meters to 8 meters for detached houses and from 3 meters to 6 meters for all other houses.

The new larger extensions must go through the following process:

• The new home owner must notify the local planning authority with plans and the description of the work they propose.
• The local authority may ask for further information about the impact of the development on the adjoining properties.
• The local authority must serve a notice on adjoining owners who share a boundary; this will give the address of the proposed development and describe the extent of the proposed extension. The notice will also set out, amongst other things, how long neighbours have to make objections, and a copy of this notice will also be sent to the Architect.
• If an adjoining neighbour raises an objection within the notification period the local authority will take these comments into account and make a decision on whether the impact on the adjoining property is acceptable.
• If the local authority refuse their consent for the Larger Extension the Architect or customer may appeal. However here at Craymanor Limited we work closely with council planning officers and clients to maximise the chances of approval for any planning application under this scheme.

There are other planning matters which need to be formalised but are not discussed here with the exception to confirm that it is no longer a requirement for home extensions to be completed within any set time frame.

Where larger home extensions are wanted by our clients it is always possible that neighbours may object to extensions that would be to the maximum 6 or 8 meters deep; this is particularly relevant where houses are terraced or semi-detached as the impact on adjoining properties can be quite considerable.

Therefore, it is imperative that any design proposal properly takes into account the impact on the adjacent neighbours and only to submit applications that are realistic and have proper regard to any negative impact on neighbours.

The architectural and building staff at Craymanor Limited are experts in all of the home extension planning processes and have an excellent 98% success rate in all planning applications we undertake, including those under the Larger Home Extension scheme.

Please feel free to contact us here at Craymanor Limited for a completely free, unbiased home visit or telephone consultation.

“Our Building Excellence Awards are all about the essence of good buildings. Our finalists are not judged on architectural beauty, but on the ‘Excellence’ shown from a construction and technical building control point of view. Our awards recognise not just buildings but celebrate their design and constructions teams that have tussled with technical issues, difficult sites and found innovatvie and creative solutions.”

Want to revamp your kitchen without breaking the bank? We can help you give it a spasmodic upgrade to meet the trends and make your space look exquisite.

There are quite a few things you can do which wouldn’t count as a major overhaul (in terms of cost) but would feel like that’s exactly what you’ve done.

Of course, if it’s an overhaul you’re after, we do specialise in that, but that’s not what this post is about.

Painting all your kitchen furniture can be a lot of work, and it’s not that cheap if done right. What’s the workaround?

We suggest you simply concentrate on the area of the wall above countertops, leaving the rest as it is. Feel free to get a bit creative and look into washable paints, or even wallpapers that look like tiles. You will find that there are a lot of great options to choose from, including wall-coverings that are very easy to install, adhesives included.

By concentrating on only one part of the wall, you can breathe new life into your kitchen’s look and feel. We won’t be surprised if you told us (in the comments below) how it feels like a brand new kitchen once the paint dries up.

Even the work of repainting this section will be therapeutic, so why not give it a go?

It’s not exactly a mind-blowing idea to install shelves, but it can do so much both in terms of creating an inclusive open space while also giving you more storage space.

What’s the point of cluttering up your cupboards and pantry closets when you can use sections of empty walls to gain some storage space? Of course, this would be a good place to showcase any fancy kitchenware you have.

If you want to take the same concept a step further, get hold of some crate boxes from the flower shop when it’s about to close, and place it in an unused corner of the kitchen to store pots, or potatoes even.

And just like that, with just a couple of additions, you’ve increased access, opened up the room, added more storage space and spent almost nothing in doing so.

The more you turn it on, the more it flows. But if your faucet is leaky, replacing it with a bold colour is a no brainer.

It’s amazing how stylish a kitchen can look with a red or black faucet. They’re not very expensive, fairly easy to install, and a great chance for you to give this space a bit more attention.

Faucets are often relegated to the background but here is a chance for you to make your kitchen more attractive with a simple change that is pretty cost effective.

And if you’re someone who spends a lot of time bent over the sink, you will start looking forward to that time with a brand new and bold tap, that doesn’t leak either.

Replacing your old chairs can give your kitchen a new life. Not only do they help you set a new tone of the room, if you pick the right ones you can add splash of colour as well.

If you have a round table, you want to get round chairs, square chairs for a square table and so on. But that’s just a guideline. One of the funkiest kitchens we’ve seen had a wide array of styles and designs so that every chair was unique. And it looked great.

Visit thrift shops for some good bargains and don’t miss your local charity shop for a good steal. It’s often the case that people find a good bargain on chairs only to find out it will cost them a fortune to have them delivered.

If you’re trying to be funky with different types of chairs, just use your own sense of style to judge if they all share a common theme, design element or style to bring it all together on your dining table.

One of the easiest ways to give your kitchen a brand new look is to simply replace the cabinets. We say easy because you can set your budget and then find the best design that fits within that. But it’s not an easy decision to make because the best cabinets need to be coordinated with everything else in the kitchen.

This wouldn’t be a cheat sheet if it meant redoing your whole kitchen, so our advice is to find cabinet doors that are simple yet reflect the style of your kitchen. If you’re colour coordinating, new cabinet doors and new (matching) kitchen blinds can give you that revamped look that you’re looking for.

If replacing cabinets is currently out of your budget, you might want to consider a fresh lick of paint to do the job. Just head to your B&Q or Lewis or what have you, grab the colours and rollers and off you go. It’s not only a fun activity, it’s also very therapeutic to put those layers on.

To give it a proper renewed touch, pick up some new knobs or door handles while you’re at it. Just make sure you remove the old handles before painting and screw in the new ones after the paint has dried.

Having at least one key feature in your kitchen can help you make this space more trendy. No man is an island, but if the man wants more worktop space and a bit of storage space he wouldn’t mind a kitchen island. That is, if you have the room for it.

Kitchen islands come in all shapes and sizes, so there’s a chance you can fit one in quite easily – to gain extra storage space you need to lose floor area. But it’s a great idea if your kitchen revamp also involves decluttering and extension of surfaces.

And yes, this is possible to do without the expense of a remodel.

In the end, renovating the old kitchen is almost always a good idea – even more so when you have a little budget to go with it.

You need to have a good idea of what you want to achieve with this space before proceeding. Consider the addition of modern elements to uplift the ambiance. If you’re considering an open kitchen layout, getting rid of doors or replacing them with sliding ones can also help you create that space.

Although recent reports suggest a drop in house prices in London and the South East, acquiring new property is often still out of reach for those trying to climb the property ladder. Nowadays, having sufficient space comes at a premium in both the housing and commercial property markets.

If you’re looking for professional advice on how to put your space to better use – this article is for you.

Commercial Loft Conversions

Has your business grown too large for the premises your company is using? The obvious but not always feasible solution would be to move premises. However, extensions and loft conversions offer exceptional value for money alternatives to the disruption caused by transferring your business to a new building. There are many innovative ways to expand your property without moving, you may also consider basement conversions and office refurbishments, creating better usability of space.

House Loft Conversions

Make the right choice and use the space you already have – transform the empty and under-utilised loft into something that is not only functional but adds stylish and stunning additional space to your home. Transform your empty loft into an extra bedroom with en-suite, extra storage space, home gym or home cinema. It is recognised that loft conversions often enhance the value of your property by as much as 20%. Loft conversions in Kent are a usually straightforward and very affordable way of increasing living space to your home.

Planning Permission and building regulations for domestic loft conversions

Loft conversions often do not require planning permission provided that they meet with permitted development criteria set down by the planning act. Some loft conversions will require planning permission due to their style, size and location and here at Craymanor Limited we provide you with all the necessary planning and building regulation advice, applications and consents required prior to commencing with any work to your home. We will also recommend the best design solutions and the likely cost of the loft conversion at our initial survey so that you have adequate budget allocated before committing to any expense. Once the drawings are completed, then the loft conversion costs will be agreed with you and you can usually expect a 3 bedroom semidetached house with a projecting dormer to be in the region of £30-£35,000.00 plus VAT, depending on the style, size and structural complexity.

Carefully consider all the pros and cons to make a conscious decision. Alternatively, you could consider a house extension – both of these options do not require you to give up any of your garden space. House extensions give you greater flexibility, as you are not constrained by the original dimensions of your property.

Craymanor Limited are chartered builders in South East London & Kent delivering commercial and domestic renovations, extensions and office refurbishment since 1985. Throughout the years, we have established our position as the leading local company for loft conversions and have carried out extensions in Dartford, Sevenoaks, Maidstone, Bromley and Bexley. We are chartered consultants and also work with local designers and architects in Kent to help homeowners and businesses maximum the potential of their homes and offices.

If you are asking yourself where to start planning your house extension project, one major decisions you are going to have to make at a very early stage is whether or not you will need an architect for your project. This can have a big impact in terms of total costs and quality of the final product.

Currently, there is no legal obligation in the UK to employ an architect – it is totally up to you. It is possible to undertake and complete various types of major residential property alterations, such as house extensions or loft renovations without the involvement of an architect. If you are sure of what the project’s goals are and what features you require, the involvement help of an architect is not always necessary. On the other hand, an architect can produce ideas on how to complement the existing house structure to create a consistent look throughout the property.

The role of an architect is often to oversee the works of builders, making sure the project is delivered within budget and on time. So, if your schedule tends to be full throughout the week, being able to rely on an architect to supervise the project will take a great weight off of your shoulders.

Alternatively, some building contractors will offer architectural services for all types of minor and major house alterations projects to keep things on track. These include architectural services such as preparation of plans and also project management, guidance through planning and building regulation applications.

This way, the whole project is carried out by one company – less time spent on dealing with multiple providers and suppliers.

Architectural Services For Your House Extension Project

If you are thinking of hiring an architect for tricky house structures that require detailed planning consider the following; a good architect can be a great source of cutting-edge ideas in design and house alterations, especially if you are after a very modern look. However, architects fees often amount to 10-20% of the total costs of residential projects, so it would be viable to employ an architect for major investments, such as new home builds, where the complexity of the project will outweigh any savings on design.

On the other hand, a trusted builder will be able to deliver a good value for money house extension that meets your budget, incorporates easy and trusted solutions without unnecessary additions, while still maintaining a coherent style both inside and out. Tradesmen will have the hands-on experience to erect practical, feasible house extensions that make the best use of space available.

For instance, sourcing the right brickwork within a sensible timeframe to complement the appearance of your Edwardian-style house will not be a problem for a reliable builder. This process will also be easier to manage as you will have just one company to manage a relationship with.

If you request a quote from a builder first, they will still be able to provide architectural consultancy services, making sure adequate plans are drawn up. Builders can also apply for any necessary planning permissions from your local authorities and take care of the paper work for you. All of this for much less than the cost of employing an architect.

Here at Craymanor Limited we are a Chartered Building Consultancy and Chartered Builders and will offer you excellent architectural services that are completely free of charge when we carry out the building works too, offering excellent value for money.

What to consider before deciding upon a conservatory for your house? There a few things that can have a decisive impact on whether or not your investment is a total success or becomes an expensive loss of garden space and as we often see are of limited benefits to you.

Contemporary glass conservatories – heating and insulation

Electric heating will warm up the space quickly, however tiled floors can still remain cold in winter, underfloor heating for your glass conservatory should be a key consideration. Close fitting blinds will be easier to get out of the way quicker, keep out the cold during winter and protect the space from the hot sun in summer months. Adding a contemporary glass conservatory on a South-facing garden can cause your new room to be boiling hot in the summer. If it’s an open space leading directly to the lounge area, the entire ground floor space can become overheated and be like an oven.

This conservatory constructed in UPVC adds significant living space to this family home.

Designate a function for your conservatory

A conservatory is sometimes a less expensive way to extend your living space than a proper house extension, however, make sure it does not turn out to be an unnecessary expense by deciding upon its clear function in line with location of the room. You don’t want your access room to become just a walk through for the conservatory.

A small bespoke timber conservatory with a timber shingle roof to the listed building in Bromley, Kent. Sympathetically designed by our in house design department to listed building strict standards.

Adjust the style of the conservatory

The style of your new build should match the existing structure of the property in terms of look and materials used, unless an unusual or quirky modern conservatory is something you are after. This not only applies to the outside appearance of the conservatory, but the interior as well. For instance, installing matching flooring will make the conservatory feel like a part of the house, rather than something quickly bolted at the back. For the exterior, special materials can be sourced or purchased second hand to create the sense of consistency on the outside part as well. This is why we always provide our clients with details of materials used – for both new builds and renovations.

Craymanor – are a house extension and conservatory building company in Kent and South East London. Get in touch with our team on 020 8302 4415 to find out more about the pros and cons of modern conservatories – our team are always happy to help and to discuss your ideas!

Loft conversions – how much do they cost?

Each loft conversion is a unique project therefore estimates are based on your individual specifications and are unique to each home improvement project. Loft conversion is the most straightforward solution to add extra space, but there may also be planning constraints, roof structure, party walls, huge steel beams… which all need to be accounted for in the quote. Here are, however, some ballpark figures:

• Velux – between £20,000-£25,000
• Standard dormer – £25,000-£30,000
• L-shaped dormer – £40,000-£45,000
• Hip to gable loft conversions – £42.000-£48.000
• Mansard – £45,000-£50,000 (requires planning permission)

Loft Conversion in Vale Road, Mansfield, Kent

This loft conversion is a stunning addition to this family bungalow now offering three additional bedrooms, bathroom and ensuite housed in a large dormer to the side roof slope of the semi-detached bungalow.

How long do loft conversions take?

No specialist loft conversion company will be able to provide a detailed quote nor project timescale estimate if they don’t know the details of the construction, window type, dormers, steel work, plumbing (applies to a loft to bedroom with an ensuite conversion) and velux. Each general contractor will work in their own ways, which can sometimes take noticeably longer than the ‘expected average’ would suggest. A loft conversion for a 3-bedroom semi-detached house with proper staircase, flooring, beams and plastering takes somewhere around 10-12 weeks. More complex attic/loft conversions can take up to 12-14 weeks. It’s crucial that you enquire with your loft contractor, ask for photos from previous works and how long those specific works took. This should give you an indication of what renovation quality you can expect for your money.

Do loft conversions need planning permissions?

Local authorities have allowances for permitted development (PD) on most domestic properties. Often your loft conversion will not require planning permission. We will assess the planning rules that apply to your home and gain the planning certificate you require.

New Home and loft conversion in Sherwood Park Avenue

This new house was built on the side of the client’s existing home creating a large four bedroom property featuring an open plan kitchen, good size lounge at ground floor level with a bathroom and ensuite at first floor level together with a superb loft conversion at second floor offering an additional fifth bedroom.

Do I require insurance for my loft conversion?

If you are managing the loft conversion work yourself, you should consider arranging professional conversion insurance as most of insurance companies will not acknowledge damages or loss while the home alternation is undergoing. Make sure the insurance covers both new and old structures. If the existing structure collapses, your renovation insurance will cover all damages (conversion insurance, in this case, replaces building insurance that is not applicable in this case). Conversion insurance should cover all: materials, tools, temporary works and other equipment, and be put in place on the day of the beginning of works at the latest.

Looking for a specialist loft conversion company in Kent and South London? For further information on types of conversions and our processes, get in touch:
Email: ­info@craymanor.co.uk
Tel: ­020 8302 4415

Bungalow loft – conversion vs extensions

Loft conversions add to the living space without an exterior addition or altering your current house’s floorplan. Loft conversions are the preferred solution for neighbourhoods where properties are located closely together, with a lack of suitable back garden space to build a full extension. Are bungalow loft conversions cheaper than extensions? Yes. One more advantage of loft conversions over extensions is their costs. Bungalow conversions are commonly cheaper than an external extension.

This semi-detached house in Eltham having a new master bedroom with ensuite enabling the existing bedroom at first floor to be turned into a study and providing more space for the children and growing family at this house.

Bungalow loft conversion ideas

Bungalow loft conversion to bedroom
In the most common type of loft the sloped ceilings create a cosy space that’s ideal for a childs bedroom, the little ones will also have no trouble walking around under a chalet style roof. Rooftop bedrooms are also loved by teenagers, who will enjoy their own independent space and privacy. Loft bedrooms with an ensuite create a standalone additional space, either for unexpected family guests or grandparents while visiting or staying over took look after the children. It is preferable to, if possible, locate the bathroom directly above the bathroom of the lower floor – this makes the necessary plumbing work more straightforward.

Turn your loft into playroom or daytime family space
Lofts of traditional bungalow style houses make it tricky to utilise the empty loft space. With sloped ceilings are a common drawback, making the space considerably smaller. With a little bit of careful planning, you can could create a fabulous home theatre or daytime playroom. Proper insulation and soundproof flooring will keep your professional digital sound system under control.

This two storey side extension and loft conversion to this house in Sidcup created additional living space incorporating two additional bedrooms, a bathroom, enlarged kitchen and integral garage.

Loft conversion to a walk-in wardrobe
This idea is the one all ladies will fall in love with. Transforming your underutilised loft space into a functional walk-in closet for you and your partner for a more luxurious home design. Loft conversion to a closet allows for tall shoe shelving or extendable hanging rails for your clothes without limiting your living space. Large mirrors will not only be functional for getting ready, but also will make the room seem bigger (another clever trick right there!).
Follow to this Pinterest list to find plenty of clever ideas on how to effectively utilise the loft space despite slanted ceilings.

Converting a bungalow – limitations

Regardless of how you decide to utilise your attic space, there are several restrictions applying to bungalow loft conversions:

• Lack of load bearing walls
• Sloped ceiling limits the headroom available on the second level
• Original building features need to be worked around
• You may not be allowed to have dormers

Another aspect to consider is allocating ample space to fit in a staircase in a property that was never designed to have a second floor. Some of the ground floor space will need to be sacrificed. The location of a staircase will be dictated by the internal layout. Our structural engineer and a loft conversion building company will be able to recommend the best solution to that takes up the minimum of ground floor space that is necessary.

The advantage of older bungalows over newer ones are their steeply pitched roofs, however that depends on the design. The steep slope of the existing roof will allow for ample headroom on the upper floor, especially if your goal is to use the space as a sleeping area, not a rarely used storage room. Nonetheless, consider that anything of 1.50-1.60m will be totally unfeasible. Even the best conversions into dormer bungalows, will feel too claustrophobic, especially to taller people. If your initial idea to expand upwards fails because a regular loft conversion would be too low, look into raising the roof.

Traditional bungalows can still retain their original features, such as brickwork or chimneys. Materials can be sourced to make sure the newer elements of the construction blend in well. This is also your chance to refresh the elevation and make your aged bungalow look like a new build.

Bungalow building regulations

Building regulations applying to bungalow conversions are not as strict as for other domestic alterations. As an example, installation of fire doors is a requirement for “2-storey into 3-storey” conversions, but this is not the case for bungalows. Your conversion will often fall under permitted development. However, you will still need to submit a lawful development. Also, you may not be allowed to have dormers. Here at Craymanor, we will be able to advise on the next steps during the initial site visit.

Convert your bungalow to add value

When it comes to adding value to your property, a bungalow loft conversion can be considered one of the most cost-effective alterations that delivers a high return on investment. Added property value can be as much as twice the amount invested in the conversion.

Here at Craymanor we offer our clients in Sidcup and across Kent a huge range of bespoke building projects designed individually for every single property; no one design is repeated. We also have relationships with some of the finest suppliers of bespoke kitchens, studies, bedrooms and bathrooms, offering excellent ranges throughout the whole property from hand woven carpets, hand prepared wood floors, all the way through to hand crafted covings, mouldings and decorative effects.

Before deciding to extend your property, there are a few basic essentials of extension projects that every conscientious homeowner should be aware of.

House extensions without planning permission

Traditional house extensions offer plenty of flexibility when it comes to location and size. House extensions can often fall under permitted development and may not require planning permission. However, some of the more complex alterations, such as side house extensions, have a bigger impact on the appearance of the street scene and will need planning permission. The application needs to be submitted in advance and can take a several months to obtain the necessary permission.

This extension has created an additional lounge at ground floor level together with an additional bedroom, master bathroom and ensuite at first floor level together with an external dormer to the loft space. This was achieved by using reclaimed materials of matching colour and texture, paying particular detail to construction techniques and external finishes.

House extension or conservatory

Which is the best solution for you and your property? Most importantly, as a general rule, an extension will add more to the financial value of your house should you ever decide to sell it.
At a later date it may be possible to add a glass conservatory to your house extension (but rarely the other way around). In many cases, the total cost of adding a proper conservatory is cheaper than building an extension. However, whilst house extensions have to be fully insulated, heating a conservatory throughout the winter period can be expensive. Therefore, your running costs and heating bills will be lower with a house extension than with a conservatory. A free site visit from our building surveyor here at Craymanor Ltd will allow for a discussion to help you determine the best solution for you and your budget. The ground where foundations are to be laid may also be a source of additional material costs – poor soil may require deeper foundations for adequate support. Extensions built on clay soil tend to be less expensive unless there are large trees very close to the extension.

This client had previously instructed Craymanor Limited to undertake an impressive two storey side extension and then went on to instruct us to carry out a fantastic loft conversion enabling the creation of two bedrooms and bathrooms at second floor level together with access to a steel and glass framed balcony.

Addressing the floorplan: the practicality of a bathroom

If your house extension project includes at least one extra bedroom, it is sensible to allow for at least one full bathroom per floor. Larger households can benefit from bedrooms with en-suites (a full bathroom usually accompanies the master bedroom). House extensions are the chance to provide additional bedrooms according to the needs of your family, however this should ideally be balanced out by adding a number of bathrooms.

For help with house extensions in Kent and across the South East or to request a bespoke quote, please complete our contact form or call us on 020 8302 4415.

There are numerous reasons why someone can be looking to plan an extension to their home. Many of those might include the fact you are trying to find additional living area, you might be attempting to add value to your present home before the sale or you may be looking to change the appearance or performance of the property. These elements might vary but the construction process undertaken is fairly straightforward.

Applying for Planning Permission

It is generally the case that home owners are often concerned by the concept of extending their home for a number of reasons. The regulations and laws surrounding planning rules frequently confuse people, either in relation to the expense or how to comply with the regulations. Therefore it is essential that a contractor employed to carry out works is also able to provide reliable advice in the complex regulation process in acquiring planning permission and building regulation approval (some house extension projects falling under permitted development rights where planning permission is not required but will often still require building regulation approval).

Get Your Builder to Help

Reputable contractors will offer detailed information and support in obtaining all necessary planning and building regulation approvals. Contractors who offer comprehensive and detailed assistance will advise on the type of extension that would suit a homeowner, whether it be a loft conversion, kitchen extension or a single/double storey house extension, giving advice and guidance on the necessary requirements needed to meet with planning and building regulations.

An experienced contractor can also offer guidance on the way extensions and conversions are laid out, maximising usable floor space so that the homeowner does not sacrifice more than they are gaining from their extension or conversion. And of course at all times having an eye on the aesthetic and architectural appearance of any new extension.

Another important factor when considering a conversion or extension work is that the homeowner has sufficient facilities. Adding bedrooms to a home implies that there will be an increased requirement and necessity for additional bathrooms or shower rooms and many people also opt for a family bathroom together with an ensuite and a ground floor toilet adding further usability to their homes.

The above highlights the necessity of securing the services of a trusted, local builder who will offer help and support and in Craymanor Limited’s case, will undertake the whole process of design through to build from start to finish. A local builder will have in depth knowledge of the area, local authority requirements and quality suppliers of materials which can only be beneficial in achieving the desired outcome of a gorgeous home extension or conversion, representing excellent value for money.

For extension and conversion projects in Kent and South East London call our team now on 020 8302 4415 where all at Craymanor Limited are a well known and trusted Architectural Consultant and Builders with over 30 years experience in building extensions, loft conversions, garage conversions and kitchen extensions in Kent.

Loft conversions are widely considered convenient and cost-effective home improvement projects. They do not only allow you to get more space that can have its own dedicated function, but also increase the overall value of your home. You may be able to accommodate an additional double bedroom with an en-suite, a home office space or playroom for the little ones.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of all loft conversion aspects you need to know before you decide with proceed with your project – from design considerations to applying for permitted development or planning permission.

Find out how exactly you can benefit from your loft conversion investment, and what crucial aspects of the build will allow you to complete a best-value lost conversion.

Let’s start with the basics…

What is a loft conversion?

When already an owner of vacant space that’s not being used to the fullest extent, it’s always easier to adapt it into a habitable room or bedroom, rather than move home. No doubt, this solution will create the additional space that’s in demand, while saving you the hassle of relocating.

The initial design considerations that we will be able to talk you through include: ceiling height, access (staircase alterations), lighting installation, plumbing works, utilities connections, flooring, fire escapes and alike.

However, what you should be aware of from the square one is that not all lofts can be converted. A brief survey will be required to determine if your house loft is suitable for a conversion. The initial site survey should look at 2 crucial element that can qualify your house for a conversion:

• roof structure – post mid-60s many roof structures are modern trussed roofs (compared to previously popular traditional-cut and purlin roof styles)
• ceiling height – the minimum height requirements are 2.2-2.4 m for a traditional roof, and usually 2.4-2.6 metres for modern roofs (post mid-60s)

Contact here at Craymanor Limited to help you carry out a brief assessment and advise you on which type of loft conversion will work best in your case. Which type of loft conversion will allow you to make the best use of the empty space at hand, will be determined by the following:

• What type of roof structure does your house have?
• What do you want to use the loft for after it’s been converted?
• And last – but not the least – what’s your budget?

No matter what your questions are, there are three kinds of loft conversion projects we look at: internal and dormer loft conversions (least complex and invasive), and loft conversions requiring a removal of the roof and a new build.

Dormer loft conversions are considered the best choice in most cases as they provide a good space ratio. The latter, on the other hand, require complex building works and can be quite pricey and time-consuming, although they do provide more flexibility. Pre-fabricated units can be incorporated to assure the roof is watertight within a few days.

Internal loft conversions – they are a cost-effective solution that involves little or no changes to the existing roof structure. Side windows can be added to the roof slope, floors straightened and walls insulated.

Dormer loft conversions – either single, full-width, side dormer, hip-to-gable or L-shape dormer. Single dormer conversions can be added in pairs to assure symmetry.

Are loft conversions good investments?

Whether you own the property, or are still in the process of paying off a mortgage, you can consider a loft conversion to substantially contribute to the value of your home. Most cases involve an increase of 20%. Your house will be valued more by estate agents depending on the location and the quality of work carried out to the loft, so choose wisely. It can be said that completing a loft conversion usually guarantees a return on investment.

Do loft conversions require planning permission?

Usually, undertaking a loft conversion does not require a planning permission, unless your project involves altering or extending the roof space exceeding certain limits and conditions. The terms of permitted development can be found on legislation.gov.uk website (2015): https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2015/596/schedule/2/part/1/crossheading/class-b-additions-etc-to-the-roof-of-a-dwellinghouse/made

Permitted development means that you are free to undertake your loft conversion without applying for a planning permission. However, for a project not to require a planning permission, the following limits must be met:
* There can be no verandas or balconies
* In case of terraced houses: maximum space extension of 40 m3 (under Permitted Development Rights)
* For semi-detached and detached houses: max. of 50 m3 of additional roof space
* No new extension can exceed the highest point of the existing roof
* Materials used must appear similar to the structure of the existing construction
* Any side opening must be at least 1.7m above the floor, without frosted glass
* Roof extensions are not permitted on certain areas such as: World Heritage sites, conservation areas, national parks and other similar areas.

If your property does not meet any of the requirements listed, the project may require a full planning permission. We will in any event always obtain a Lawful Development Certificate for any of the loft works.

How long do loft conversions take?

There are certain reasons that may will increase the timeframe of the conversion project, such as:

• Type of the existing roof structure
• Type of the loft conversion you’ve decided on
• What materials are going to be used
• Type of staircase to be installed
• Are plumbing and utilities required in the loft?
• Number of rooms and windows to be added

These numerous variables make it difficult to accurately estimate how long your loft conversion project will take. Setting the dates of milestones and giving you an estimates time frame for your conversion is only possible after our initial site visit. Industry’s guidelines suggest that loft conversion project usually last between 6 and 8 weeks before the build is completed. 8-12 week project would apply to more complex conversion works.

Craymanor Ltd are a trusted loft conversion company based in Sidcup, delivering home improvement solutions to South East London and across Kent. Find out more about our loft conversion services or contact our team to request a personalised quotation on your project.