Loft conversion

[bodgerthebadger]

Hi, can anyone recommend firms to carry out a loft conversion in the South London area? So far, i'm getting quotes from A1 and Landmark Lofts but was wondering (a) if anyone has any experiences of using these firms and would they recommend? and (b) any other firms they'd recommend? We're probably leaning towards a "one stop shop" service hence picking A1 and LL for quotes so far.

Thanks very much!

[oscarwilde]

We used South London Lofts
Pro's
Very quick and efficient - they work like the clappers.
High standard of work
Cons
They have a standard spec they build to, and if you want to change it, it was a big hassle even though it's been quoted for by the sales guy and spec'd. We wanted floorboards only rather than sheets of chipboard for example. HUGE drama
Our site manager had poor english which was a big hassle when there was a problem.
Very much a one stop shop. They will "let" you bring other contractors in, but it's clear that the onsite team aren't happy.

[bodgerthebadger]

Thanks Oscarwilde. I'd definitely like the option of going off spec and i know clear communication is crucial in these projects so would want a foreman who I can confidently communicate with. Thanks for the feedback. Very useful.

[LoftOwner]

I have used A1 and all I can say is you should think very carefully whether to use them. Steve, the salesman will promise you the world, "a beautiful space", "designed for you" etc. In the end we paid over £2,000 to have a "Designer" take our initial ideas and transpose them directly into a plan. The spaces in the plan were horrifically out of proportion and we had another 4-5 amendments where we had to provide 90% of the ideas, point out that they had stairs terminating in the middle of door frames, that the plan was not drawn to proportion etc etc. It then took them many weeks (where they did not communicate at all) to come back with quotations and we simply gave up and went with a more professional outfit.
Conclusion - I am sure they build a perfectly decent space (for probably the highest price in the market) and you will be fine if you want a sausage machine loft with limited design input. If you take an interest in your loft, point out the huge chasm between their design promise and their real capability (or query why they only provide 2 spot lights for a massive room etc) they get tetchy and start ignoring you. There are more professional and accommodating providers out there!