Side Return / Loft conversion - Stoke Newington / North London

[MH123456]

Hello, has anyone put in a side return in their home of late? Ideally in Stoke Newington as this is where we are, but any advice from Londoners much appreciated!

1. How long did it take from planning to final output?
2. Did you need planning permission if just a side return?
3. How much was it?
4. Which company did you use?
5. Did you have to move out?

I’d also love to hear if you did a loft conversion too and same questions as above. Also, can you still live in your house if just doing the loft conversion? I’m presuming you can’t for side return, but hopefully yes to top floor conversion.

We are currently looking to buy in Stoke Newington, but a lot of the Victorian houses need a lot of doing up, prior to even moving in. We have 2 young kids (age 3 and a baby) who go to nursery here so don’t want to move out the area just yet. If we did buy a doer upper, just thinking ahead about time lines and if would have to move out. Or perhaps just best to do loft conversion (and not the side return) if can still live at home. Any advice most welcome. Thanks so much!

Build Team provide an online instant quote but don't use them as their reviews (including feedback on mumsnet) are shocking!

https://www.buildteam.com/online-quote-calculator.html

I know several people who used More Space , including myself, and were very happy. My side return was 9 years ago and a lot has changed in planning and costs since then so my data won't help.

https://www.ineedmorespace.co.uk/

We didn't move out however our boiler was in the loft and so we had heating and hot water throughout which is really key. If your boiler is not going to be impacted by the work then you have a good chance to remain in the house.