Low roof - loft conversion options

scrub

I'd like to convert the loft into a usable space but it's only 5'5" high. It's a thirties mid-terrace so quite wide and room for a staircase to go up.

What are my potential options? Even though I can't stand up in it, I'd like to be able to sit and look out of it as I'd have a good view.

Fat_Walt

scrub wrote: »

I'd like to convert the loft into a usable space but it's only 5'5" high. It's a thirties mid-terrace so quite wide and room for a staircase to go up.

What are my potential options? Even though I can't stand up in it, I'd like to be able to sit and look out of it as I'd have a good view.

You'll not get building regs approval if you can't stand up.

nickcc

Raise the roof. We had the same problem and extended into our rear garden but others in our road have had the original roof removed and a new higher roof fitted. We only wanted permitted development with this bungalow so went for the cheaper option.

Fat_Walt

nickcc wrote: »

Raise the roof. We had the same problem and extended into our rear garden but others in our road have had the original roof removed and a new higher roof fitted. We only wanted permitted development with this bungalow so went for the cheaper option.

On a mid-terrace?

divadee

Put a dormar loft conversion in. Had it done at my parents and it was great.

DREKLY

Cut bits off the legs ?

Mr.Generous

They wont approve a dormer above the height of the roof apex anymore I remember reading it on a planning site. 5'5" before you put a floor in and plasterboard? Your best bet for a conversion would be upon completion sell the house to Warwick Davies.

nickcc

Fat_Walt wrote: »

On a mid-terrace?

Why not, plenty of examples of poor planning approvals.

WobblyDog

If it's just the view you want, you could always put an HD pan/tilt/zoom camera on top of the roof. It would probably be unpopular with the neighbours though, unless it was in a position that couldn't overlook them.

Davesnave

Sometimes you have to accept that the house you have won't give you what you want.

In a similar position, with a good view and a stunning one possible at first floor level, I obtained planning for a first floor extension. Only when I costed it and saw the plans, did I realise what bad value it was and how ugly it might look.

The plans were duly screwed-up and I did something else, saving about £40k.

I'm going for the camera option and a HD TV. It's much cheaper!

bmthmark

A friend of mine had a loft conversion done which had a low roof. Even though it was nicely done it just didn't seem right. I'm 6ft tall and I was constantly worried about hitting my head. I would worry about selling it as it would put me off buying it.
Davesnave is right sometimes you have to accept the house you haven't won't give you what you want.

If I was you I would consider the costs moving and getting that extra room as part of the move.