Like all construction projects, attic conversions are often subject to planning issues. However, with over 150 years of combined experience, the loft conversion specialists at Econoloft solve all kinds of problems for our customers. From party wall issues to complying with permitted development rights, we find reliable solutions for any planning issues you may face. Because loft conversions are our area of expertise, we identify potential problems early on to ensure you have the most stress-free building experience. No matter your needs, we deliver professional solutions that keep your loft extension in St Albans on track and meeting your requirements.

The following are some of the most common planning issues we come across as a loft conversion company, but we are adept at solving all other problems. If you need honest, expert advice about attic conversions, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team.

Don’t forget, we offer loft conversion planning as part of our design to completion solutions and as an individual planning service. Whether you need ideas and advice for a future project or reliable turnkey solutions, we are here to help.

Furthermore, as steel suppliers we can help ensure you have the perfect steels for your project, no matter what you are planning. We are steel stockists and fabricators, offering expert measurement, manufacture and supply services.

Conservation Areas

A conservation area is a designated area with extra planning controls and considerations in place and they exist to protect architectural or historical interest. In addition, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) have protection under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. These protections mean the construction of loft conversions is subject to further restrictions and requirements.

Because Econoloft is a comprehensive loft conversion company with in-house architectural technicians and draftsmen, we provide advice and solutions for building in conservation areas in St Albans and the UK. This covers planning permission and any specific restrictions, such as having to use matching materials.


Compliance with Permitted Development Rights

The main reason for loft extension refusal is the failure to comply with permitted development policies. While our loft conversion specialists carefully design attic conversions in St Albans to meet the criteria, you may have plans from another contractor that do not comply.

Econoloft offers expert solutions that ensure loft conversions fall within permitted development rights. This may include resolving issues such as:

  • Loss of Light or Overshadowing

  • Poor Design

  • Appearance or Materials

  • Objections from Neighbours

  • Impact on a Listed Building or Conservation Area

  • Previous Planning Decisions

Party Wall Issues

If planning a loft extension on a terraced or semi-detached property in St Albans, your project may involve work to the party wall, which is the wall between your house and your neighbour’s. Under the Party Wall Act 1996, you must notify your neighbours of intended work that will affect the party wall. They then have the right to disagree with your plans.

If this happens, our loft conversion specialists help resolve the dispute in line with the processes set out in the Party Wall Act. Having been operating as a loft conversion company since 1986, Econoloft helps resolve party wall issues quickly and calmly, so all parties are happy.

Econoloft is on hand to help with all loft conversion planning requirements and issues. We streamline planning and build processes, ensuring minimal delays. In addition, because we are turnkey loft converters and steel suppliers, we remove the need for third parties, resulting in more efficient project solutions.

Request a call back

If you need expert loft conversion planning services in St Albans and the surrounding areas, call Econoloft on 0800 269765, 01942 722754 or 0208 7771719.