Converting your attic is certainly a job for the professionals, but if you get it right you not only gain a fabulous light-filled space you also get an extra floor for your home.



Know what you want

An Attic Conversion is a major job and is advisable to get an architect to get plans drawn up. Make sure you know what you want so that you can brief your architect. Are you considering more than one room? Do you want to include a bathroom and if so are you content with a shower or do you need enough space for a bath? What are the rooms to be used for? Have you thought about storage space?

At this stage it is also worth spending time thinking about lighting and other electrical requirements - if you are going to use the loft as a study you are likely to need more electrical sockets, for example.

Don't get into hot water

Most people convert their loft to add an extra bedroom and bathroom to their home. The layout will largely be dictated by the position of the staircase and plumbing arrangements for the bathroom: "It can be difficult to put the bathroom at the front of the house as you have to run a soil pipe to the back of the building where the existing bathrooms and toilets are situated. You'll also need to consider the hot water and heating system. The boiler may not be capable of heating the extra space or providing enough hot water for the extra bathroom."

Use the professionals

Finding a professional company to convert your loft needn't be a problem. Log onto www.completehome.ie and find all the services you require for your new Attic Conversion.

Be sure to ask any builder how they will access the loft for the early stages of the work. A good builder will erect scaffolding and bring in all structural materials through the roof. By the time they cut the stairwell out and install the staircase, the new room will be structurally complete and ready to be plastered. Some companies cut costs by taking everything through the house, but this can cause a lot of damage and aggravation.

Ask three builders to quote for the job against your plans. This will give you a better idea as to which company offers best value for money. But remember cost and value is not the same thing. Check out the builder, look at previous work and talk to past clients to find out if they were happy with the quality of their jobs and the way in which they were carried out.

Always use a contract

The cost of the job will vary depending on its complexity and where you live.
The majority of problems between customers and their builders occur when there is no written contract clearly outlining the full extent and cost of the work to be done. Consult your solicitor to draw up a contract.

It's all in the planning


Check with your local council for current planning rules as some loft extensions can be carried out without the need for planning consent. These rights are typically defined within certain cubic capacity.



Top tips for lofts

Do contact your local planning department to get a full understanding of the rules and regulations

Do get in the professionals - you will need an architect and structural engineer, plumbing and heating advice and at least three quotes from reputable builders.


Do make sure your builder and designer explain any changes necessary to your existing house to upgrade its fire precautions

Do be flexible - you may need to compromise on the position of roof windows and dormers, for example.

Don't ignore a party wall - you may need an agreement with your neighbours if you are affecting it in anyway.

Don't rush your decisions, plan carefully this is an important investment.

Don't expect this to be over within a week or two - however good your builder is - this is a major job and it will inevitably be disruptive for a while.