Where to start with loft conversion?

[Mandy21]

We are currently thinking of extending the house but can't decide whether to have a loft conversion or a double storey extension at the back of the house. We're definitely having a single storey L shaped extension but have been advised that we won't get planning permission for double storey at the side of the house, so can potentially only have a room (maybe 10ft x 9ft) over the kitchen.

I have absolutely no idea whether the loft can be converted - how do we go about finding out about this? Do we ask a local loft conversion company to come round? Or do we have to start with an architect and see what he thinks (and then ask a loft company to cost it up?) Would ideally like 4th bedroom and ensuite - how much space do we need for that? Its a 1930s semi.

Any advice welcome.

Thanks

It's often firstly about the head height in the roof space and secondly about the type of existing loft construction. I imagine most loft conversion companies would be able to advise, even as a first port of call.

I say this with the experience of starting withan architect whos advice was in the clearly lacking once the experts (loft conversion company) started the actual work!

Where are you in UK?

I agree, it mainly depends on the height in the roof space. If not quite the minimum head height for usable space you could go to the expense (and disruption) of lowering the ceilings on the first floor to get the increased joist sizes and the necessary insulation thicknesses in. We have a loft conversion in our 1930's semi and in my experience producing planning drawings, it's the Victorian and Edwardian properties that have a shallower roof pitch and are therefore more difficult to convert.

Loft conversion firms will have (or should I say should have) experience in the practicalities of their speciality but for a wider view an Architect would be the better bet.

She / he will be able to offer advice on more than just the loft conversion and would look at the whole house to indeed provide inspirarion and ideas to ensure what you need is realised.

I usually allow an hour's free discussion on site with a potential client to explore (in outline) their aspirations and then offer initial advice on what may be possible - although I have in the past talked myself out of some projects

:(

Try this website for your local practices:

[http://www.architecture.com/UseAnArchitect/Home.aspx Find an Architect]

Thank you for this - we're in South Manchester - my husband says we have a high apex - he's 6ft and he cannot reach the point when he's standing in the loft but we don't know how big the space would be and where the stairs would go. Will get on to a couple of loft companies to see what they say. Thanks again.

Find an Architect

Ours was done by a Manchester company and we were very pleased with it. Their surveyor has some great ideas and the joiner who led much of the work was very experienced and skilled. See them on www.above-it-all.co.uk/ for their telephone number and some examples/ideas as well.

Thank you, will give them a call.