The conversion of your loft, attic room or dormer can be an extremely cost effective and efficient way of adding new living or indeed storage space to your property. Although it may not be necessary to apply for planning permission, under new regulations that came into effect from 1 October 2008 a loft conversion for your house is considered to be permitted development, not requiring an application for planning permission, subject to certain limits and conditions. However, building regulations will apply to such an extension.

The regulations will be applied to ensure, for example:

• loft conversion - the structural strength of the new floor is sufficient
• the stability of the structure (including the existing roof) is not endangered in your loft or attic conversion
• safe escape from fire
• safely designed stairs to the new floor
• reasonable sound insulation between the conversion and the rooms below

Structural Engineers are also consulted where there is concern over a structural element of a building, these may for example be identified through cracking or bulging of a wall.
As Party Wall Surveyors you may also need our services if you are planning on undertaking work on your property which may have an effect on neighbouring properties, see party wall. Use Riddwood engineers for a safe Loft|Attic Conversion.