If the roof on your house is pitched you have an attic or loft. If you are not already making full use of it you should certainly consider how best to exploit this valuable space.
External appearance
The top floor of a building is highly visible, so extra care must be taken to ensure that your attic conversion is not unsightly; this is particularly important if you live in a building of architectural or historical merit. In this case you may be required to get special permission from the ancient monuments division of the local town planning department for your alterations.
Professional advice
Attic conversions are extremely complicated and particularly vulnerable to the practical constraints of every authority imaginable, including your neighbor. So if you plan to make any structural alterations to attic or roof you will certainly have to consult an architect.
Points to consider
- Will adequate use of this space mean a great deal of structural work and alteration of the roof line?
- Are you prepared to employ an architect and go through the formalities of obtaining planning and bylaw approval, dealing with the health inspector and fire authorities and probably agreeing party-wall awards with your neighbour?
