Tips on loft conversions

How you go about converting your attic will depend on what you want to use the space for.

Some of the things you'll need to think about are:

• Will I need a new floor?
• How will I get to the new room?
• Do I want rooflights or windows fitted?

Loft conversions are generally carried out to provide:

• an extra bedroom (maybe with en-suite)
• a playroom
• a study/office

If you plan to use the attic space to store light items (e.g. suitcases and Christmas decorations) then loose boarding is usually satisfactory. Remember that the ceiling joists are intended fix the ceiling below and are not designed to take heavy loads. To prevent any overloading of the ceiling joists, loose boarding shouldn't cover more than 50% of the usable area.

'Usable area' is the part of the roof space with a headroom greater than 1.5m (approximately 4'6"). Access to this storage area is often by a retractable ladder.

For any use other than light storage you will need to tell the Building Control Section who will advise you on what you need to do.

Contacts

• Email: buildingcontrol@powys.gov.uk
• Phone: 01874 612290
• Address: 
  • Brecon Office - Neuadd Brycheiniog, Cambrian Way, Brecon, Powys, LD3 7HR
  • Llandrindod Wells Office - County Hall Llandrindod Wells LD1 5LG
  • Welshpool Office - Neuadd Maldwyn, Severn Rd, Welshpool SY21 7AS
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