So how does it work in terms of building regs/planning permission on a conservatory and loft room?

[Thandeka]

Clueless first time buyer here.

We are in process of buying a property with a conservatory and loft room built before 2000 and before previous 2 owners I think.

I know building regs have got a lot more stringent since then especially in terms of loft conversions so is there anything we need to worry about or is it if the conversion predates the building regs its not a worry. Also it has a very steep ladder going up to loft conversion- but measurements appear to be able to possibly accomodate a staircase that we would probably want to put in- presumably this would then be subject to building regs?

Also do conservatories need planning permission? I think I read somewhere if they were less than 10% of total square footage it was okay? I think it probably is less than that?

Anything we should worry about?

Any advice gratefully received!

Go onto the council website and look at their building / planning section. Ask the current owners if you could arrange for a building inspector to visit and report to you (and them) as a surveyor would.