loft conversion - do we need an architect?

[ssss123]

We live in a very standard 3 bed semi and are looking to get a loft extension (bedroom, en suite and a bit of eves storage). Would people recommend getting an architect to draw plans or is it a bit unnecessary.

Thanks in advance.

Depends on the impact it makes in the rest of the home - and in Scotland things are different to rest of UK . At least go to your council and discuss your Ideas with someone first ...

We had an architect for our loft conversion. The building contractor arranged him. The architect did all the paperwork for the buildings regs.

An architect may be able to get the best out of the space.

I would say a structural engineer would be useful if you are adjusting roof structure (supporting timbers etc) but a loft conversion company may well be just fine if you are doing a basic conversion.

You could submit plans yourself if your neighbours have done something similar however loft conversions do require structural work so a structural engineer is required as well as building regs (assuming you want more than just a loft room which isn't counted as proper room).

Architects will organise this for you - you could use an architect's technician who tends to be less expensive. We did a large loft conversion and detailed structural plans were needed as was someone to discuss 'challenges' with the builder. Builders build to detailed plans - steels, stairs, dormers sizes, floor strengtheners are designed by an architect or structural engineer.

We just had a structural engineer as was straightforward. You can't do it all yourself as you have to work out the calculations for steels, etc.

Thanks all. really helpful.

Yes, i would