loft conversion tips

Many people, with a few loft conversion tips and just a little bit more planning, can create an excellent additional room to their property. Statistics show that an average loft conversion costs approximately one-third of the cost of moving to a property with an extra room, and although it's still usually easier to do a standard extension on a house than it is to convert a loft; the latter will almost certainly put more value on the house. If looking for loft conversion tips it should be remembered that there are two basic types available. The first is a Dormer conversion, and involves an actual extension onto the roof. The second is known as a Velux conversion, and this does not require any extension. (Both of these kinds refer to the type of window you get installed - Dormer involves a window that is part of a 3D extension onto the roof; whilst a Velux is almost flush with the roof). One of the most important loft conversion tips is to remember that you can't just go ahead with the work, as you do need to check whether or not you're going to break any laws first! If the loft is to become habitable accommodation, (like in the case of a home office) you certainly need to comply with the Building Regulations, and you may even need Planning Permission. If you're in any doubt, contact the Planning Department of your local Council about this. The Building Regulations are there to ensure that a reasonable level of health and safety is maintained so this is probably the most important of the loft conversion tips. In the event that you discover you do need Planning Permission, but decide to go ahead without it anyway, your local Council will almost certainly find out, and it's very likely that you'll be forced to pay to have the work put right. You may also encounter problems when trying to sell your house!