When does an attick become a habitable room? Re-generate an old or tired space and give it a fresh breath of life. Click here for answers, information and tips

[clc.sheff]

My attick is not high enough for a full conversion but would like to re-enforce the floor, board it out and put a lift ladder in to allow easy access. Had thought that it's not much more work to insulate it and plasterboard it (had hoped to use it for occasional hobby space/ or office). Don't want a window. Have had a couple of loft conversion companies round and have been told that this is ok. But having done some research I have come accross conflicting information as some say it's illegal to have a space that a bed can be put in. Can anyone help me? (or point me in the right direction?) Any reply muchly apreciated. Thankyou

[dennis graham]

Hi, the companies you have contacted have mislead you. your roofspace becomes a "habitable" room when you "habitate" it. ie, use it for any other purpose than storing items. you can strengthen, board out and fit a ladder, lights and a socket, all to store materials. It becomes habitable when you use it for a hobby room, office or bedroom. Anything that involves you spending but a few moments in the roof. My businesses are Loft conversion Specialists of Beverley and DG design associates, we have designed and build loft conversions for over 25 years.

[eljaybee]

Dennis is right, it's once you put the plasterboard on (irrelevent as to whether there is a window or not) it becomes a space that can be used as a room and thus needs Building Regs and all the associated structural, thermal and fire requirements apply.

See also my reply to another question on this forum


[url]https://www.diydoctor.org.uk/forums/viewtopic.php?t=14663[/url]

[clc.sheff]

Thankyou for your replies. I had already read your answer to the other persons query and that's what set the alarm bells ringing. You've saved me from a very costly mistake.
I'm flabbergasted that I have been misled by supposed reputable companies. I did have the sense to ring my local council who confirmed your advice but I can imagine that many people might not have checked it out.
I contacted the companies involved to give them a piece of my mind and they said I was wrong and as long as I didn't advertise it as an extra room (i.e. saying my house was now 4 bed instead of 3) it was fine!!

Again I would like to thank you for taking the time to reply to my query

[the specialist]

Hi,

Like our learned friends have said habitable requires compliance with building regulations. Companies who say you dont need it are merely trying to get your business at a lower cost. I think they should be stopped from trading. Did you also know it is illegal to use it as a habitable room with building regs. You can be prosecuted.

Also when you sell a property without having got your certificates it will be down valued!

My company carry out basement conversions and we have to deal with the same con men - but quality and honesty still sells!

Aidan

[TheDoctor5]

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