Is your loft suitable for converting?

With the additional costs involved with buying a bigger house, I occasionally get asked about the advantages of a loft conversion in comparison to an extension to the rear of a property. 
Quite naturally, many find it hard to believe that a loft conversion will probably cost them more then a new build.  As the walls appear to be already constructed, understandably, one would expect the costs to be the other way round.

Loft conversions

Converting the space under the roof of your home can be a cost effective way of creating extra bedrooms.  But not all lofts are suitable for conversion and consideration must be given to:

• Height:  Is there enough room in your loft to stand up?  For your loft to classified as a bedroom you will need a minimum of 2m headroom.  Remember, this will be after new floors have been fitted which may take up another 300mm of headroom.
• Floor-space:  Is the floor area big enough to make a useable room?
• Utilities:  Will any chimneys, tanks or pipes need moving to create a usable space?
• Is there enough room on the landing to fit your new staircase on the second floor?
• A Dormer window may not be acceptable if the pitch of the main roof is too shallow.

Any loft conversion is a complex project and will need professional plans drawn up by an Architect and approved by your local councils building control team - you may also need Planning Permission so best check with your local Authority Planning Department.

Extensions to the rear of property

Unlike loft conversions there are very few, 'hidden' costs which allow a better idea on the overall budget.  Most builders will give you a sqm price to allow you to work out the final costs but always make sure you get at least three quotes and a breakdown on what you are getting for your money.
Consideration must also be given to the need for the additional room.  Should it be for someone who uses a wheelchair or elderly you would need to go for the extension rather then the loft conversion.  Large extensions will not get planning permission if they are outside of the building line or cause a loss of natural light to the neighbours.

In either type of extension it is always best to discuss your plans with the neighbours and Building Control first to avoid any problems at a later stage.  In this modern world thought also needs to be put into Environmental issues such as solar gained - thermal insulation to walls and ceilings, recycled materials, double glazing and a highly efficient heating system.       

Comparison between the options

When all your costs are put together it may be more beneficial to move house rather then the inconvenience of a construction project in your home.
The main difference between the two options is the need for a fire assessment of the property.  This will include escape windows at the first floor, the kitchen must have a 'fire resisting' construction and all doors in the property must be fire resistant.  The ceilings may need upgrading with all rooms needing smoke alarms.  All fire doors need to be continually checked to ensure they are doing the role they were intended for.  All smoke alarms will also need checking regularly.

Due to these additional costs that are not necessary on the ground floor, the extension on the ground level works out cheaper as well as being more useable friendly to all.  

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