FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Our frequently asked questions address some of the most common queries homeowners have when considering a loft conversion. They cover practical topics such as design, permissions, construction and timescales, helping you understand what to expect before work begins. If you don’t see your question answered here, our team is always happy to provide further guidance.
General & Sustainable Building
What is sustainable building?
Our homes and their impact on the environment are an increasing concern for the government and the residents of the UK. Sustainable building or ‘green building’ has been introduced due to lessen the negative impact our buildings can have on the environment.
This is combated by sourcing materials from renewable, natural sources that have been harvested in a sustainable way. Inside the home, energy efficient appliances can be installed, thus saving on energy, helping you and the environment.
What are the benefits of sustainable building?
Energy efficient tools installed in the home can result in financial savings for the home owner, for example installing high levels of insulation and energy efficient lighting can reduce energy costs as well as the use of solar panels which is not only cheaper but a renewable energy source.
ABM have experience of sustainable building projects and would be more than happy to provide this service.
Planning & Regulations
What is planning permission?
Planning laws exist to ensure that any building works are positive for the local area, both environmentally and socially, considering the positives as well as the negatives. Planning permission is granted by the local council and once granted, allows the home owner to carry out renovations to their property lawfully.
Their objective is to ensure all factors are considered, therefore making an informed and balanced decision.
Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?
For many homeowners, the loft conversion project falls under permitted development rights, meaning formal planning approval may not be needed. However, it can depend on the type of property and the loft conversion style.
More about whether you might need Planning Permission for a Loft conversion here.
What is permitted development?
How do I apply for planning permission?
ABM prepares the drawings and paperwork on your behalf for the local council’s consideration. ABM keeps in touch with the council throughout the process. Local authorities will either approve the application or approve subject to conditions or decline the application in its entirety.
Whatever the decision they will always state the reasons. Once Planning permission is granted and building regulations approval has been sought, works can then commence.
What are building regulations?
All roof / loft conversion conversions must comply with the statutory Building Regulations and therefore will require Building Regulation approval. If structural works such as flooring or other alterations are intended, Building Regulation Consent will be required whether or not the room is for habitable purposes. The main parts of the Regulations which you need to comply with are listed below.
Part A – Structure
Part B – Fire safety
Part E – Sound insulation
Part F – Ventilation
Part K – Protection from falling, collision & impact
Part L1B – Thermal insulation
There is additional information on building regulations on the planning portal website and on our Building Regulations page
How do I apply for building regulations approval?
ABM prepares plans and submits them to the appropriate authority, along with the required fee. The plans are then examined to make sure they comply with the regulations. This process usually takes 6 – 8 weeks. We will then carry out any amendments if requested.
Once you have building regulations approval, works can then commence.
Upon starting works we will notify the building inspector and he will attend site at various stages to inspect the work being carried out.
The Loft Conversion Process
What happens after the first visit?
After we visit your property we will assess the most suitable planning route for your project – whether that involves full planning permission, permitted development, or prior approval. You will receive:
- A comprehensive feasibility study and a clear, detailed scope of works
- A realistic programme with key milestones and expected timelines
- A fixed-fee proposal for achieving the required statutory approvals, with transparent stage-by-stage costs
For a FREE Survey and Quotation with no obligation, get in touch.
What are the main stages of a loft conversion?
If you decide to proceed with our proposal, we’ll:
- Produce a range of concept designs and layout options
- Review the ideas together and refine what works best
- Agree the preferred design direction before progressing
We can then manage all required planning submissions, whether Planning Permission, Permitted Development, or Prior Approval. Where needed, we also prepare and submit Building Control applications.
We produce detailed technical drawings and specifications for Building Control approval. Where possible, documentation is
submitted alongside planning to help save time.
As part of this process, a Structural Engineer’s calculations will typically be required to confirm the adequacy, stability, and overall safety of the proposed works.
Your project can then be delivered through your own contractor, or by our own experienced team, giving you flexibility and confidence.
How long does a loft conversion take?
Typically a loft conversion takes between 6 and 12 weeks for the construction phase, with the entire process from planning to completion often spanning 3 to 5 months.
A simple VELUX® conversion can take around 4-6 weeks, while more complex dormer or hip-to-gable projects usually take 8-12 weeks.
Once we know about your project we can advise you on the duration of your project.
Will I need to move out during the build?
For most loft conversion projects, you won’t need to move out during construction. As scaffold is installed, builders normally only access your property from the roof so there is minimal disruption.
However, the choice to stay or vacate the property while work is carried out is mostly dependant on personal circumstances and preferences.
Choosing ABM
What are the benefits of choosing ABM?
ABM offer all services under one roof. Plan and design, design and build or build to your plans. Your choice. This means you don’t have to independently source designers or project manager if you don’t want to, this can be stressful and time consuming.
ABM can do this all for you. With over 30 years of experience and industry knowledge you can be confident that whatever your vision or plans, they will be realised with ABM.
How are you different from other loft conversion companies?
At ABM Lofts, we specialise exclusively in loft conversions and home extensions, setting us apart from general construction companies. With hundreds of successful projects across Sussex, Surrey, and the broader South East, we bring extensive experience and expertise to every job.
Our focus allows us to provide personalised guidance from the very beginning, helping you choose the ideal conversion or extension to match your lifestyle and family requirements. From the initial concept and design through to securing planning permission and meeting building regulations, we manage every step of the process with care and professionalism, ensuring a smooth journey from start to finish.
Learn more about what we bring to the table.
Do you offer any guarantees?
Yes we offer a 10 year gurantee and you will be working with a company with over 30 years of experience speficially with Loft Conversions.
To find out more about our company visit our About page.