Lofts, extensions and alterations

Lofts, extensions & alterations Buying a house with a basement conversion: what to check A well-executed basement conversion with building-regulations sign-off, a working waterproofing system and a safe escape route is usually nothing to w... 10 min read → Lofts, extensions & alterations Can you convert the loft of a flat you are buying? Possibly, but it depends on several factors. In a leasehold flat the loft space is often not included in the lease, so an agreement with, and payment... 5 min read → Lofts, extensions & alterations Extending a house that has already been extended Extending a house that has already been extended starts with assessing the existing extension: its structural condition, design and whether the utilit... 5 min read → Lofts, extensions & alterations Extensions built over a public sewer: risks and permissions An extension built over or near a public sewer needs a Sewer Build Over Agreement with the local water company, alongside building regulations and, wh... 6 min read → Lofts, extensions & alterations Fire compartmentation in homes: what buyers should know Fire compartmentation divides a building into compartments separated by fire-resistant walls and floors, so fire and smoke cannot spread rapidly. It g... 5 min read → Lofts, extensions & alterations Is a loft room a bedroom or a gallery? Building regulations A loft room can be classed as a bedroom only if it meets building regulations, as explained in the Approved Documents. The key checks are a safe means... 7 min read → Lofts, extensions & alterations Loft conversions: what to consider before you start Before converting a loft, consider how the space will be used, whether planning permission is needed, whether the roof, floor and walls can take the c... 5 min read → Lofts, extensions & alterations Unapproved loft conversions: risks and how to make them compliant An unofficial loft conversion is one carried out without meeting building regulations or obtaining Building Control approval. It can affect the safety... 5 min read → Lofts, extensions & alterations What makes a loft conversion habitable and legal? A loft conversion is habitable when it complies with the Building Regulations for England and Wales, has planning permission where needed and a buildi... 5 min read →