Do I Need an Architect?

It is possible to work with a builder and architect who cooperate, or just a builder. “You can hire an architect who will prepare plans for a builder to work to, or hire a specialist loft conversion company, or experienced building firm, which will be able to create the plans as well as carry them out,” says MyBuilder to team vanguardproservices.com

The best starting point is through a personal recommendation, says consumer group Which? and ensure you ask to see examples of previous work. It is best to get three quotes for any job, it suggests.

Should I Warn The Neighbours?

Keeping the neighbours informed is a good idea, as construction can be noisy and the builders will need a skip, which could mean moving cars around on the road. In some cases, especially if you live in a terraced, or semi-detached house, you will need a party wall agreement. This happens when work is happening near a wall that is directly between properties belonging to two different owners.

The process begins by giving a “party wall notice” to neighbours of the intended works. They can agree; refuse consent, which prompts a dispute-resolution process; or require that additional works are done. The builder or architect should be able to advise on this.

Typically, work on a loft conversion should take between six and 10 weeks, but these times have been extended as a result of the problems with labour and supplies.

Beware of builders who present time lines that appear too good to be true. “Longer waits may mean consumers are drawn in by rogue traders offering unrealistic turnaround times and cheap quotes. Customers need to have patience, as a good builder is a busy builder, which means waiting times may be longer than usual,” says Brian Berry, chief executive of the Federation of Master Builders.

There is usually no need to move out during the work, although there can be obvious disruption, such as noise and dust. In some cases, scaffolding is put up and the builders enter and leave the loft that way (until they have to build the stairs), causing less disturbance.

Be sure to tell your insurer about any alterations that change the value, structure or security of your home, as this may affect buildings and contents insurance. It has been estimated that loft extensions can add significantly to the value of a home, but that needs to be balanced with the amount of money spent.