Semi detached loft conversion plans must consider the wall that adjoins your home to that of your neighbour. Under certain circumstances, you may need consent from the neighbour to undertake any conversion or extension work, and this needs to be given before any work can start.
The existing Party Walls Act means that some work required as part of your loft conversion plans may need your neighbour’s agreement. If this is the case, that consent needs to be obtained officially before conversion work can begin. Failing to do this could be a costly mistake, as well as causing bad feeling between you and your neighbour. Where permission is needed, you will need to provide details of exactly what conversion work will be undertaken. This will include any work that needs to be done to the foundations as part of your house extension plans. However, one of the most common reasons for needing permission is where you need to cut into shared walls to install support beams to support a strengthened floor. Another common reason is when you plan to install a dormer window along the boundary line, or when you want to extend the lofts existing party wall vertically for any other reason. If you are unsure of whether you will need this type of permission, it is best to contact a professional who can offer detailed advice, as well as design and create floor plans that ensure your new extension or conversion will pass the required building regulations.