Converting a 1-bed flat into a 2-bed flat - the legal side of it

[DIYMum3]

Hi everyone! Has anyone done this before? When I google, there is a lot of practical advice around how to optimise space and what to watch out for when planning the works, but I am wondering what I need to do to / apply for to legally change the flat into a 2-bedroom, update the floor plan, etc. I'm aware that I need permission from the freeholder to erect the partition wall, but I've been told from an estate agent that they still couldn't sell it as a 2-bedroom flat - only as a '1 bedroom flat plus study'. Is there any way to legally and officially turn it into a 2-bedroom? Obviously all regulations regarding room sizes etc will be followed.

I turned a 2 bed flat into a 3 bed and the two things we had to do were: every room needed a window, and every room had to open into the hallway. So no room coming off a room.

And windows? Why did the EA say what they did?

I don’t believe there is any legal record of number or rooms or floor plans so I think you’re looking for something that doesn’t exist. We turned bed 4 into a study. No one else knows, why would they!

Thanks both! Yes, all my rooms would have windows and lead into the corridor etc...from what the estate agent says, it's to do with the official ground plan and the planning permission. That's what they have to use when advertising the flat, so if my flat is officially a 1-bed flat in the ground plan and lease contract, then that's what they need to sell it as. They said they legally can't advertise it as 2-bedroom flat, because the documents say differently. They were not concerned about anything else or that the bedrooms wouldn't need requirements. But I'm just relying on what this one estate agent said, if this sounds incorrect then maybe I should look for another view on this.

You can advertise or call you flat what you like no one is going to stop you.