Planning an attic conversion

There are two basic types of loft conversion:

• a dormer conversion - building an extension that protrudes from the roof.
• a Velux conversion - putting in windows that are flush with the roof.

Your plans will need to comply with building regulations. If you opt for the Dormer conversion option or the property needs extensive structural alteration then you will also need planning permission from the local council.

These days, the yellow pages are full of loft conversion companies with oodles of experience, so once you've chosen (based on asking around and checking out the works etc) you will most likely find that your chosen company will draw up all necessary plans and carry out the work. See our article about choosing and working with contractors.

It would be rare to need the services of an architect or structural engineer unless your plans are particularly unusual.

Try and get the work done in the summer. Loft conversions can be structurally complete in six weeks, sometimes less. Once the structure is watertight it becomes less important how long the finishes take to perfect. The danger of doing a conversion in the autumn is that wet and windy weather can play havoc with your timings.

Think about how you intend to use the room. Work out where your desired furniture will go when it is complete. Try and position the windows, radiators and power sockets around your needs for the space rather than shoe-horning yourself into the space afterwards.

Check that your central heating system is robust enough to cope with extra radiators. A new boiler may be expensive to buy and install (around £2,500) but it is far better to bite the bullet and get all the expensive, disruptive jobs done together than have to go back and address the corners you tied to cut at a later date.

There is no such thing as a "ball-park figure" for a loft conversion. They can cost as little as £20,000. They can also regularly cost £50,000. Some grander projects can cost double that.