Loft conversion options (architect/builder/specialist firm?)

polestar

Hi,

We have just bought a 3 bed granite cottage that we will be using as a second home and for holiday lettings.

We are planning to convert the loft space into a bedroom and move the main bathroom from the ground floor to the bedroom directly above. We plan to keep a small wc on the ground floor and use the rest of the downstairs bathroom space as a scullery/laundry area.

Before buying we had a loft conversion firm check the property and they have said the loft space is suitable for conversion. As we will be using the cottage as a holiday let we also need to make sure that the current building, as well as any additional works, will comply with fire regs etc.

We have never had building work done before and are looking for advice on where to start. We have a realistic budget for the work but obviously don't want to spend money unnecessarily. We are also trying to be realistic about our own level of experience and ability to project manage the work.

Quite a few people have advised us that we can save costs by using an architect and experienced building firm rather than a specialist loft conversion company. Yet others have said even an architect is a bit ott for this type of work and, if we find a decent firm, we could just work directly with the builders.

After witnessing many other people have problems with building works by trying to cut corners, I am wary of trying to do it for the first time without the advice and support of a professional such as an architect. However, am also aware this will add at least £1500 to our costs.

I'd appreciate your advice on the pros and cons of a) using a specialist loft conversion firm, b) hiring our own architect, c) working directly with builders or d) any other options!!

Many thanks

P.s. We know that we are not going to be adding a huge amount of value to the property by doing this but we got the cottage at a very good price, we're planning to keep it for a long time and are happy that the costs of the improvements will be worth it to us.

cyclonebri1

polestar wrote: »

Hi,

We have just bought a 3 bed granite cottage that we will be using as a second home and for holiday lettings.

We are planning to convert the loft space into a bedroom and move the main bathroom from the ground floor to the bedroom directly above. We plan to keep a small wc on the ground floor and use the rest of the downstairs bathroom space as a scullery/laundry area.

Before buying we had a loft conversion firm check the property and they have said the loft space is suitable for conversion. As we will be using the cottage as a holiday let we also need to make sure that the current building, as well as any additional works, will comply with fire regs etc.

We have never had building work done before and are looking for advice on where to start. We have a realistic budget for the work but obviously don't want to spend money unnecessarily. We are also trying to be realistic about our own level of experience and ability to project manage the work.

Quite a few people have advised us that we can save costs by using an architect and experienced building firm rather than a specialist loft conversion company. Yet others have said even an architect is a bit ott for this type of work and, if we find a decent firm, we could just work directly with the builders.

After witnessing many other people have problems with building works by trying to cut corners, I am wary of trying to do it for the first time without the advice and support of a professional such as an architect. However, am also aware this will add at least £1500 to our costs.

I'd appreciate your advice on the pros and cons of a) using a specialist loft conversion firm, b) hiring our own architect, c) working directly with builders or d) any other options!!

Many thanks

P.s. We know that we are not going to be adding a huge amount of value to the property by doing this but we got the cottage at a very good price, we're planning to keep it for a long time and are happy that the costs of the improvements will be worth it to us.

They got that the other way round, yet another thread where the op has been brainwashed into thinking an architect is needed, Jjjjjuuueeeesss.

fluffymuffy

Well I'm an architect and I think you'd do better with a Loft Conversion Company. They do this all the time. They know the solutions and don't need to keep reinventing the wheel. I wouldn't touch a loft conversion.

teneighty

I would suggest the main benefit of using an architectural designer (not just an architect) is you will have a detailed set of plans that you can use to get several competitive quotations.

If you go to a single loft conversion company you are rather putting all your eggs in one basket.

I'm a bit surprised by some of the comments. A loft conversion is a relatively straightforward building job well within the scope of any good builder and architectural designer.

Good luck.

gin

We had a loft conversion done on our semi and used a builder. He didnt specialise in loft conversions, but we were the 46th he had done (I think). He had a good relationship with Building Control who came out regularly to make sure all regs were followed. After the final inspection, the Local Authority sent us the paperwork to show it was all legal.

phill99

Most builders do loft conversions. It's bread and butter to them. You don't need an architect, but you will need a draughtsman to draw up plans.

polestar

Cheers for the helpful replies.

The brainwashed comment was a little harsh though. If I had been brainwashed into thinking I need an architect, I would just have gone with one rather than testing the water and asking for advice. Surely that's what forums like this are useful for - asking for advice on issues that are completely new to you?

Have been getting advice from a range of places and am starting to feel a bit more informed now. Will be making some decisions soon.
Ta!

cyclonebri1

polestar wrote: »

Cheers for the helpful replies.

The brainwashed comment was a little harsh though. If I had been brainwashed into thinking I need an architect, I would just have gone with one rather than testing the water and asking for advice. Surely that's what forums like this are useful for - asking for advice on issues that are completely new to you?

Have been getting advice from a range of places and am starting to feel a bit more informed now. Will be making some decisions soon.
Ta!

I apologise, the brain washing comment was mine. Sorry.

It did not relate to you but to the advice that so called "advisors" post on here, look what the following poster, fluffymuffy said, an actual architect said, :T:T:T


A loft conversion does not require the expnsive help of an architect, and here I hope I have not offended Fluffy?

I am a mechanical engineer, few qualifications, but I can read, I can figure, and;

I have done loft conversions in the last 2 of my properties with full building control approval without issue, it's not difficult.

polestar

Thanks for the message - no hard feelings cyclonebri! :beer:

Construction_Materials

Keep an eye on the cost of your project and make some comparisons. Get as many quotes as you can and try to select a company with recomenadtions. You wont need an achitect but you will have to make sure that the correct steels are in place to suport the roof. You may also have to upgrade the floor joists. Get a fixed price for the job so you know where you are at. . Best of luck

leveller2911

spam reported......Desperation......