Loft Conversion
How to select the best builder for your loft conversion
Many people find themselves wishing that they had more space in their homes. Whether it’s because you have added to your family, or perhaps want a study or crafting area, it can be challenging to find room for all of the people and activities you wish to accomplish in your home.
With these things in mind, this is why performing a loft conversion can be an excellent way to expand your living space and increase the value of your home. Performing a major construction project such as a loft conversion in your current dwelling can have some challenges, but with the right builder, it can be a fantastic way to give your family more usable space.
Today, we are going to discuss the best ways to find a qualified builder for your loft conversion project.
- Have and discuss detailed building plans
- Ensure that you are comfortable with who you choose
- Inquire about experience and accreditations
- Obtain detailed written quotes from multiple sources
Let’s take a closer look at each of these points.
Discuss building plans in detail
Converting a loft can be a fairly involved process, since most homes do not automatically meet the stair and window requirements for building regulations in their current loft spaces. With this in mind, you should have detailed conversion plans draw up before meeting with potential builders for your loft conversion project.
There are several common types of loft conversions that you may want to consider for your home. They include:
Hip to gable conversions: The most common conversion when you build out vertical walls from the current roofline and add windows.
Dormer loft conversions: The perfect option for detached or semi-detached home with at least 3 sides that slant.
Mansard roof conversions: The most involved type of conversion that completely changes the entire roofline.
Once you have decided which type of loft conversion works best for your situation, you can bring in builders to meet with you about your project.
Make sure you have comfort and confidence in who you select
Choosing a tradesman to complete a loft conversion in your home is a major decision. You will be working with this person for an extended period of time and want to make sure that you are 100% comfortable with them and confident in their work.
One of the best ways to find out how a builder is to work with is by speaking with people who have worked directly with them. These references can provide a lot of insight.
You should also take a look at their communication style. Are they polite in all conversations, both in person, via the phone or through email? Are they prompt with replies and on time for meetings, etc.? There are very important signs to look at when making a choice.
Ask about their job experience and accreditations
Converting a loft to livable space is not always a simple process. You will want to seek a tradesman who has extensive experience in conversions similar to yours. Take the time to ask them in detail about other conversions they have done. Also, request to see a portfolio or even visit prior building sites to see the contractor’s work in person.
Also, inquire with your candidates about their membership in professional organizations or schemes. This typically indicates that they work to high professional standards and take their trader seriously. Being a member of certain professional schemes can also give many builders the ability to self-certify their work, which can save you money in the long run, as it prevents outside persons from having to be brought in to ensure that the work is to regulation.
Get multiple written quotes
With any job of this magnitude, you will want to obtain at least 3 like for like quotes from local builders. Make sure that the quotes are written and include detailed line items such as materials, labor, additional equipment expenses, site security and facilities and waste removal and disposal. In addition, a written quote should include a detailed payment plan and workmanship guarantees and follow-up.
Converting your loft space into livable space can be a great idea. We hope this guide assists you in finding an excellent builder for your loft conversion.