GMArchitect

Most integral garage conversions do typically fall under Permitted Development, meaning planning permission is not required. However, it is still best to check with your local authority.
If you live in a conservation area or in a listed building, you will almost certainly need planning permission. It is also worth checking for any planning conditions attached to the house or garage when constructed (i.e, the garage has to remain as parking) before beginning works as an application will need to be submitted to remove the conditions.
If the conversion falls under Permitted Development, applying for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) is a good idea, particularly if you aim to re-mortgage or sell the house in the future.
If you are converting a separate, stand-alone garage as opposed to an integral one, then you may have to apply for a change of use.

First of all, check what type of roof do you have.
There are two main types:
1) Traditional roof
This type of roof is found in houses that were built before 1965. They are different from modern roofs as their rafters form an M shape that meets in the middle of your loft, and typically have a measurement of 2.2 metres at their highest point.
2) Modern trussed roof
These roofs are usually found in homes that were built post 1965. These styles are constructed with the rafters forming a W shape, and are typically 2.4 metres at their highest point.
Trussed roofs can be more difficult to convert than traditional roofs. The problem with trussed roofs is that, because of their W shape, the frame generally takes up most of the room in the loft, meaning the entire frame must be replaced. However, this endeavour is by no means impossible - it just may be a little more expensive to undergo.

Do you have enough room?
Once you’ve worked out which type of loft is in your home, whip out the measuring tape, it’s time to get down to business. In order to find out whether converting your loft is a possibility, there are two main aspects to consider.

Floor area
Although this is just a general guideline, your loft’s internal walls should expand across 7.5 metres from front to back, and 5.5 metres from side to side. However, as is mentioned, this is just the ideal space - smaller lofts are possible to work with.

Roof angle
Ideally, the pitch should be at a higher angle, so that the central head height is the highest possible. Any angle above 30 degrees would work best.

In order for your proposed loft conversion to pass building regulations, it must measure 2.2 metres from the floor to the highest point. This allows for sufficient head height, while at the same time taking into account that the roof has to be insulated and the floor built up.

Another deciding factor will be access to the loft - do you have enough room to erect a staircase on your first floor?
This is something GMArchitect will be able to advise on.

Planning App, Building Regulations and other parties

Planning Permission
Under your permitted development rights, as a homeowner you are allowed to extend your roof space by up to 50 m3, or 40 m3 for terraced houses. However, there are certain specifications, so you must plan accordingly, otherwise it will be counted as a project that requires planning approval.

It’s worth adding that these permitted development rights do not always apply for homes in conservation areas - consult with an architect or planning officer to see if planning permission is needed.

If you’re thinking of undergoing a loft conversion, GMArchitect can ensure that you stay within your permitted development rights, or even secure planning permission (where needed). Feel free to get in touch to find out how GMA can help.

Building Regulations
Building regulations are a set of guidelines the homeowner must follow in order to be approved, concerning fire safety, energy efficiency, household fuel conservation, and many other similar topics. Every loft conversion requires building regulations approval, regardless of whether planning permission is involved or not.

Party Walls
Another thing to keep in mind is that, if you’re in a terraced or semi-detached home, you will need to consider the party wall you’re sharing with your neighbours. If modifying a shared wall, building, or boundary, you will need to get consent from the other party. We recommend notifying them early on in the process, in order to avoid any awkward and costly disputes.

1) Introduction meeting
The first meeting is useful in order for GMArchitect to properly understand your ideas, expectations and requirements.
2) Survey
Where a set of existing drawings (plans, elevations and sections) is not available, the first step will be a survey of the property as needed and required. Once survey is done GMArchitect will produce an EXISTING SET of drawings to be used as a base to develop options and ideas for clients.
3) Proposed set
The proposed options are to be discussed, commented on, changed and eventually approved by the client.
Once a final set of drawings is approved as 'Proposed', it can be used to obtain quotations from constructors or permissions from Local Authorities.
4) Planning Permission or Building Regulations
5) Schedule of Works
The production of specific 'Schedule of Works' allows the client to keep the costs under control and to be always on top of any expenses.
Usually this is to be agreed at the tender phase.
6) Project Management
Where required by client, GMArchitect can act as Project Manager, following the building site from start to completion, updating and keeping the client posted about any development on site.

Refreshing a layout or building a new home, GMArchitect will listen and follow the client's need and preferences.
As your Architect I will translate in reality your wish and dreams for a new interior or a new house along with a Modern Contemporary touch.

I like to think that, as Architect, I have the opportunity to make clients' wishes come true.
I like to establish a two-ways trustworthy relationship while going through the building process. In this way I can properly understand the needs behind a request and the Clients can experience only the good feeling excitement of going through the realisation of their project.

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Where outdoor on-site meeting are possible, any type of contacts are to be avoided, a minimum of 2 metres social distancing is to be kept, wearing mask at all time is required and strictly mandatory.