Loft conversions ''require consideration''

Before beginning a loft conversion always consider your neighbours and apply to your local authority to check you don''t need planning permission for the work, says one property expert.

Maud Rousseau, from property consultancy Rightmove.co.uk, says that loft conversions add value to homes but that people who already live in an in-demand area already may find it less lucrative.

"If your property is already at the top end and has no more room for growth then sometimes it is inadvisable to extend your property for profit," she said.

"If however you do not wish to move but require extra space then it can be a very useful means of doing so."

Some properties do not require planning permission for lofts because they are the property''s first extension and it does not exceed 40 cubic metres on a terraced property, or 50 cubic metres on other property types.


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