FAQs
Having completed over 2,000 loft conversions across Sussex, Surrey and Kent over the past 30 years, we know a thing or two. Please browse through our loft conversion FAQs. If you have any questions not answered here, please do not hesitate to get in touch, we would be happy to hear from you.
How much is a loft conversion likely to cost on my property?
Usually most loft conversions start from £40,000 +VAT depending upon your requirements and the size of the property. As a cost guide by loft type we estimate, Velux Loft Conversions £40,000 – £60,000, Pitch Dormer Loft Conversions £55,000 – £65,000, Hip to Gable loft conversions £65,000 – £75,000, L-shaped Dormer £65,000 – £75,000. Part of our Lawsons Lofts service is to offer you a free feasibility survey and at this point we can be more specific on the price range.
How long will it take to build?
Majority of our loft conversions are ready to plaster within 4 weeks allowing 2-3 weeks for finishing such as carpentry, plumbing, tiling and electrics – ready for you to decorate by week 8! Please allow an extra week or so for larger homes.
Does a loft conversion add any value to my property?
Absolutely, provided it’s done by a professional company with a creative design and in compliance with full building regulations.
Does a loft conversion require planning permission?
Generally planning permission will not be required unless you are in a conservation area, area of outstanding natural beauty, a listed building or a maisonette. This is providing we adhere with the permitted development requirements, mainly not exceeding the cubic capacity allowance (40 cubic metres for terraced houses and 50 cubic metres for semi and detached houses). However if you have had a double storey extension with a roof attached to the existing roof the cubic volume of that roof attachment has to be taken off your given allowance. Lawsons Lofts will calculate this for you during your feasibility survey.
Is my loft tall enough for a conversion?
To comply to current building regulations you will need a minimum height from the top of the joist to the under-side of the ridge board of 2.1 metres – at this minimum height a dormer is advised.
What happens after the first feasibility visit?
Within a few days, you will receive a fixed price quotation and design. Once you have agreed, we will appoint our surveyor to commence the process of having your dream loft built.
Do I have to get my own architectural drawings?
No, part of our service which is included in the price is to provide full architectural, design & structural calculations.
How long does it take to get plans drawn up?
Using our own architects, we will usually have a preliminary plan drawn up within 7 – 10 days after our surveyor visits.
What areas of Sussex and Surrey do you cover?
We regularly carry out loft conversions in Horsham, Billingshurst, Crawley, Maidenbower, Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath, East Grinstead, Brighton, Reigate, Redhill.
How long is my quotation valid for?
6 months.
Is there a guarantee?
Yes, we offer a 5 year guarantee of which you can extend through the guild and master craftsman with insurance which will then become an insurance backed guarantee to give you piece of mind. However all of our loft conversions are approved and checked by your local authority showing that it is constructed to meet current building regulations.
Do I have to inform the council?
No, as part of our service Lawsons Lofts will liaise with building control throughout the whole build and as part of the contract will make sure you obtain your approved final completion certificate. Lawsons Lofts use their own council approved independent inspectors which requires only 7 days notice.
Do I need to inform my insurance company?
It is advisable to let your insurance company know that you are having construction work done to the roof of your property and that you have scaffold erected for this. However we as a company have public liability which also covers for our workforce, damage and or loss.
I have a new style house with lots of trusses in the roof can it be converted?
Yes, Lawsons Lofts specialise in truss roof conversion, we have a technical and innovative design package approved by the firms who provide the roof trusses so your NHBC guarantee is unaffected.
I am worried about having a flat roof which may leak?
With today’s technology we now use a rubber roof system which has a manufacturer’s guarantee of 20 years. This product, cannot be torn and will last for 20 years and requires no maintenance. All of our flat roofs will have a fall, which means the water will naturally run into a drainage system.
Is there much disruption during the works, do I have to move out?
The simple answer to this is no, as in most cases we use scaffolding with loading bays and cranes to lift all materials to roof level, this allows our construction crews to open a section of your roof to build your loft without coming through the inside of your property. It will only be necessary to enter your house at the beginning of week 4 to install your staircase, however at this time your roof will be weather tight and secure when we break through.
Is there much mess?
No, as the majority of the work is done outside the property, however once we break through for staircase (all done in one day) there will be disruption in this area for that day, however our crews use dust sheets and will tidy up afterwards, using their own vacuum cleaners.
How is the loft finished?
All our loft conversions are ready to decorate as we use a plaster finish. You will have a choice of natural wood or pre primed MDF products.
Do I need to replace all my current doors and replace with fire doors, door stops and self closing devices?
With Lawsons Lofts and our approved inspectors, if you opt for the safer and alternative design of using main linked smoke detectors in all habitable rooms, you are not required to change any of your doors including glass doors.
Client Testimonials
“We’ve already had about 4 people come and look at the loft and then go on to use you!”
“Amazing job. Life changing for my children. Can’t thank you enough. Plus – so tidy!”
“We would, and have, recommended Lawsons Lofts to neighbours and friends with the utmost confidence.”