Do I Need Planning Permission For An Existing Loft Conversion?

When buying a new home, it’s important that all the right planning permissions are in place. This includes any and all building regulation consents for work that has been undertaken. But you may be wondering if you need planning permission for an existing loft conversion within a home you are buying in Peterborough?

There are a lot of different factors that you need to be aware of. We cover some of these within this blog post. However, working with a professional residential conveyancing lawyer in Peterborough will give you the reassurance that the property is safe and legal.

Not all loft conversions require planning permission. This is because some homes come with ‘permitted development’ provisions. This means that the homeowner is allowed to improve and extend their home without applying for planning permission. That said, there are some exceptions to this. Checking the permitted development will confirm whether planning permission is required or not.

It’s important to note that not all loft conversions need building regulation consent either. More recent loft conversions, where a loft is converted into a living space, will require building regulations approval. However, completion certificates were not introduced until the late 1980’s. This means that loft conversions before this time may not have or need consent.

If you are buying a property in Peterborough with a loft conversion and building regulation consent was not obtained, you have a few options. If the works were carried out after October 1985 you can ask the seller for a ‘regularisation certificate’ from the local authority. You could also the seller for a building regulation indemnity insurance policy. This is completed at their own cost, not yours as the buyer. You could use the loft as storage only, and not as a living space.

Are you concerned about the existing loft conversion in a property you are looking to purchase? Speak to our experienced conveyancing team in Peterborough. Our friendly and knowledgeable residential conveyancing solicitors will be able to assist and advice on the property and the best solution for you and your investment.