Loft Conversion Specialists based in Romford, serving customers in Brentwood, Chigwell, Epping, Chelmsford, Upminster & Surrounding
Opening times: Mon - Fri 8.30am - 6.00pm
Telephone: 01708 871 666
Essex Loft Conversions - Hip-to-gable
Are you looking to transform your unused loft space into a bright, functional, additional room? If you live in Romford or Surrounding area's and you're considering expanding your living space and adding value to your home, a Hip-to-gable loft conversion by Romford Lofts might be the perfect solution for you.
Romford Lofts have helped hundreds of discerning homeowners across Essex to maximise their homes potential. With over 25 years experience in high-quality home building services we can help you to affordably make your vision a reality.
Unlock the hidden potential of your property and trust Romford Lofts to help you transform your loft into a captivating and practical living space that the whole family can enjoy. Whatever your planning on using your loft space for, our team leverages thoughtful design and meticulous construction to create inviting loft conversions that can add immediate value whilst significantly enhancing the liveability of your home.
UPMINSTER • DAGENHAM • EPPING • CHELMSFORD • HORNCHURCH • CHIGWELL • WALTHAM STOW • BRENTWOOD • COLLIER ROW • ROMFORD • WOODFORD
What is a Hip-gable Loft Conversion?
A hip-to-gable loft conversion is a type of home renovation where the roof’s sloping (or "hip") sides are converted into a gable wall, which is a vertical, triangular end wall. This transformation creates more usable space in the loft by extending the roof’s ridge line and straightening out the previously sloped walls. The result is a loft that has a more conventional, rectangular shape with higher ceilings and more usable floor area.
Are Hip to Gable Loft Conversions a popular choice in Essex?
Yes, hip to gable loft conversions are a popular choice in Essex, particularly for semi-detached and detached homes with hipped roofs. This style of conversion straightens the slanted side of a hipped roof to form a vertical gable wall, significantly increasing internal headroom and creating a spacious, functional area.
In Essex, where homes often have hipped roofs and growing families seek additional living space, hip to gable conversions are an ideal solution. They offer a seamless way to blend the new design with the existing structure, maintaining the home’s exterior aesthetics while maximising interior potential.
This type of conversion is especially popular because it often falls under permitted development rights, simplifying the planning process. Additionally, it’s versatile, allowing homeowners to create anything from an extra bedroom and bathroom to a home office or playroom, making it a valuable investment for Essex properties.
What’s Included in a Romford Lofts Hip to Gable Loft Conversion?
At Romford Lofts, we believe in providing a smooth, stress-free experience. Our all-inclusive quotes mean everything is covered from start to finish. Here’s what you can expect:
• Initial Consultation:
We’ll visit your home to assess your loft space, discuss your needs, and confirm the suitability of a Hip to Gable conversion.
• Tailored Design:
Our designers will create a bespoke plan that makes the most of your space while complying with all building regulations.
• Expert Installation:
Our skilled tradespeople will complete all necessary work with precision and care.
• Finishing Touches:
Once the work is complete, we’ll finish the space to your specifications, leaving you with a beautiful, ready-to-use room.
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Do I need planning permission for my loft conversion?Planning laws changed in 2008, meaning most loft conversions could be possible without the need for planning permission thus making the process a lot simpler for many homeowners. This law change means that homeowners can extend their roof space by adding a dormer or hip-to-gable conversion by 50 cubic meters for a detached or semi-detached property and by 40 meters for a terraced house. This is called the permitted development allowance. However, there are several exceptions to the permitted development allowance rule, namely, flats and maisonettes will always need planning permission. If the property is located or listed within a conservation area, or if the roof height is being increased then these will require full planning permission and meet the policy design guidelines of your local council.
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What is building control?The building control office located within a local authority is in place to ensure any building work undertaken conforms to building regulations, this includes, design, construction methods, and approved materials. Internal loft alterations (even non-structural ones) may affect fire safety, so prudent to contact the local authority.
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If we are required to submit a full planning application, how long will it take for a decision?Normally the council will advise of their decision within eight weeks.
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How high does my loft area need to be for a conversion?A loft conversion requires there to be approximately at least 2.2 meters in height from the top of the floor joists to the bottom of the ridge board. If not, your property might be eligible for several different types of loft conversion. Depending on the property’s structure, we could lower your existing ceiling joists to enable sufficient height required to construct a loft conversion.
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What if my neighbours object?The local authority will notify your neighbours and any other interested parties for their consideration, they usually have 21 days to respond. This will be inspected by the public online and will be considered by the council officers on the basis of planning reasons. They cannot reject your application simply because some or even many people oppose it. The local authority must always give reasons if it refuses your application or subjects it to certain conditions.
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What is a party wall agreement, and will I need one?A party wall is an existing wall or structure shared with an adjoining property, for example, the wall between two terrace houses. As most loft conversions may affect the structure of a party wall you will need to notify all adjoining neighbours. Typical works: Changing the height of a party wall. Breaking into a wall to insert a structural beam. Underpinning a party wall where needed. The above is covered by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996
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What is a party wall agreement, and will I need one?A party wall is an existing wall or structure shared with an adjoining property, for example, the wall between two terrace houses. As most loft conversions may affect the structure of a party wall you will need to notify all adjoining neighbours. Typical works: Changing the height of a party wall. Breaking into a wall to insert a structural beam. Underpinning a party wall where needed. The above is covered by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996
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How do I serve a party wall agreement?Being neighbourly, it is best practice to inform your neighbours if you are planning to convert your loft space, pre-warning them of a pending planning application from the local authority can avoid unnecessary hick-ups. Would be a wise decision in our opinion to share your plans beforehand. Next steps - give notice in writing to all owners of when you plan to do it, and how it will impact them. Served at least two months before the work on the party wall is due to start. Your neighbour may agree to work starting earlier but is not obliged to, they have 14 days to respond. Any agreement from other owners must be gained in writing. If agreement on the work is not reached, an "agreed surveyor" can be appointed to draw up an "award". This award will typically set out the work to be done, how and when it will be carried out, and will include a report on the existing condition of the adjoining property. These costs are typically covered by the owner of the property converting their loft.
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Is there disruption when constructing a loft conversion?Throughout any building works there will always be some sort of disruption. With the process of converting a loft, most of these works (85/90%) are carried out in the loft area, therefore minimizing the risk of disorder. The only time you will potentially experience any disruption will be when the team breakthrough your existing ceiling for the new staircase to service the new loft area, this will be no longer than 2 days.
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Health and Safety & Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015)At Loft Care, we are continuously committed to ensuring the health & safety along with the welfare of our employees, contractors, clients, and the public. We are fully aware of our legal duties under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. Separately, we ensure the implementation of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015) in the domestic construction sector, guaranteeing these duties are passed on to the contractor.