Planning permission to convert a loft into a study or storage room If you want to know how your DIY projects could be affected by building and planning regulations, click here to post questions and view answers

[lofty]

i am planning to convert my loft into a study or storage room next year and was wondering exactly where i stand on planning permission.The only structural work needing done is the trimming of one rafter for a velux window.Does anyone know what i need to do before carrying out the work?What would happen if i plasterboard it,floor it and put the window in without permission?Any advice would be appreciated :)

[thedoctor]

It is illegal to turn a loft into any kind of living accomodation without having approval from Building Control Lofty. Your house insurance would be invalid and you may not be able to sell. These however are minor considerations compared top the fact that, without proper fire safety, or adequately supported floors, you could also kill someone. The floor in your loft is designed only to hold up the ceiling of the floor below and maybe carry a couple of empty suitcases. Even the water tanks have special platforms built for them. See our project on Loft Conversions which will give you a little more detail but structural safety, fire safety and insulation values are all covered by the regulations and all have to be adhered to by law.

[lofty]

thanks for the advice.i guess it would be safer to get permission first.