When undertaking a loft conversion project, Surrey Steels can manage the whole process of fabricating and installing the steel. From design to delivery and installation, we can see the project right the way through. However, there are certain preparation aspects that you will need to ensure are completed before we can bring in the steel!

Loft conversions: planning permission and building regulations

Before any works can go ahead, planning permission must be attained and building regulations will need to be followed! All loft conversions must meet building regulations, so a surveyor should keep an eye on the loft conversion before, during and after the work has been carried out. Our team are all experts on building regulations and steel, and will follow regulations from stage one to completion.

Different properties also require different permissions when it comes to preparing for a loft conversion, so always check with your local planning authority to see if you will need planning permission for your project.

Decluttering your loft ahead of the conversion

These days, the typical household loft that is about to be converted is full of christmas decorations, memorabilia and random bits and bobs. In order to prepare for a loft conversion, you will need to make sure that all of this is safely removed from the loft so that the space is completely clear.

A common occurrence when people undertake loft conversions is that they suddenly realise just how much is stored away up there and with absolutely no idea where to put it. In these circumstances, it’s necessary to be fairly ruthless about what you are going to keep and what you will throw away.

Questions to ask yourself when considering whether or not something is worth keeping:

• Do I need this?
• Am I ever going to use this?
• Am I holding onto this out of obligation?
• Does it have any monetary or emotional value?

Once you’ve sorted out the whole loft space, you may find that actually it was quite satisfying to get rid of all the junk!

Ensuring that there is good access to the loft

Another step in the preparation process for your loft conversion is ensuring that access to the loft is good. Be prepared that a lot of people will be in and out of the house during the entire process, so landings and stairways need to be clear of objects for safety and ease of access.

Your builders will advise you as to any other methods of preparation that you may need to undertake! With Surrey Steels providing and delivering the steel with our specialist cranes and delivery equipment, this part of the process should be quick and easy, with spot on accurate steel measurements and convenient installation.

Get in touch to talk about your future loft conversion projects and how we can help!