A loft conversion is a perfect way of adding value and extra space to your home. Whether you’d like to add an extra bedroom, a bathroom or a general living space, a loft conversion is a cost-effective way of enhancing and expanding your home, all without the need for a house extension. In this article, we’ll be detailing how you can benefit from a loft conversion, together with what you should and shouldn’t do on the run-up to its construction.
Benefits of A Loft Conversion
There are many benefits to converting your loft into an extra living space for you and your family, including:
Adds value to your home
Loft conversions are an excellent way of adding considerable value to your home, and making a return on your investment. It can increase the value of your home by around 20% – a remarkable percentage. According to Woodhart Group, a loft conversion can increase the value of an average home by as much as £37,000.
Less expensive than moving to a larger property
Stamp duty, solicitors fees and administration costs can quickly add up to an enormous sum of money. A benefit of a loft conversion is that you can add space to your property without having to move to a larger house. Not only will this save you money, but you won’t have to:
- Extend your commute or find a new job
- Settle any children into a new school
- Go through the stress of packing and moving home
At present, stamp duty can equate to the same amount of money as a whole loft conversion, so spend less and gain more.
Maximise Your Existing Space
Planning a loft conversion often means that you already know what you’d like it to be transformed into. You may even have planned to have extra built-in storage incorporated in your conversion, such as cupboards or bookshelves. With the right planning process, you could turn your loft into a:
- Playroom
- Bedroom
- Living space
- TV room
- Games room
- Bathroom
A natural source of light
A loft conversion will require skylights, dormers or Velux windows in order to let in an adequate amount of light. This is the perfect opportunity to enable copious amounts of sunlight to enter the room, enhancing the light, airy feel of your brand new loft conversion, regardless of what you decide to transform it into.
The Dos and Don’ts of a Loft Conversion
Before agreeing to a loft conversion, there are a few things you should do (and not do) to prepare for it:
Do check building regulations – speak to the company who will be carrying out your loft conversion regarding certain regulations. You could even do some research into this yourself. Things you should consider include:
- Planning permission
- Party wall agreements
- Building regulations
Your loft conversion provider should be able to answer any questions you have about any of the aforementioned points. It’s important to check everything and have everything in order before commencing with any work.
Don’t go with the first quote you receive – this doesn’t just go for loft conversions. Consider the scale of work which will need to be carried out, together with the materials which will be needed to complete your loft conversion. Ask what will be included as part of the construction, together with the timeframe in which it’ll be completed.
Tips for choosing a quote:
- Don’t go with the lowest quote. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is
- You will always pay slightly more for excellent workmanship and high-quality materials
- Take a minimum of three quotes and a maximum of five – you don’t want to make more work for yourself
Do have an open mind – it’s important to remember that no two loft conversions are the same. Some conversions may be fitted with all the latest mod-cons, such as intelligent lighting or underfloor heating, whereas another conversion may have a built-in wardrobe, for example. At Kingsmead Conversions, we’re dedicated to meeting your exact requirements and specifications, giving you a space you can be proud of.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions – if there’s something about your build that you’re unsure about, you must always ask your loft conversion provider – it’s better to ask than to forever be in the dark. A good, legitimate company would rather you feel happy and confident in the work they’re carrying out, and as such, questions should be answered with professionalism, offering reassurance at every turn.
Do your research – the worst thing you can do is go into a loft conversion blind. Research different companies, read some reviews and get some recommendations. You should also look into building regulations and planning permission, so you have a basic understanding before asking around for quotes. It’s also important to have a solid idea in terms of what you’d like to transform your loft into for a more accurate quote.
Don’t avoid being involved with the process – to ensure your loft conversion is running as smoothly as possible, ensure you remained fully involved in the process, checking on progress and developments throughout the conversion. A legitimate company will not have a problem with this. Instead, they’d be perfectly happy to keep you in the loop at all times, and be proud to show you the work that’s been carried out thus far.
Do consider timing – a loft conversion shouldn’t really be affected by the weather, unless windows or balconies are being installed. But many homeowners feel more comfortable if work is carried out during the spring/summer. However, it’s always a good idea to ask your loft conversion provider first. This makes you aware of their availability before you begin making plans or arrangements.
Here at Kingsmead Conversions, we’re able to assist you with the construction and development of your loft conversion. We use a wide range of professionals to ensure excellent workmanship and quality materials are used throughout the process, and for your peace of mind. We’re even able to help with Velux roof conversions, together with staircase design, loft design and development and planning services. If you live in Oxford, Bedford, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, Aylesbury or the surrounding areas, get in touch with us today – we’re always happy to help.