Loft Conversion Loans and Finance

Loft conversion costs can be expensive, but with our low APR loans, the project could be a lot more affordable. Once completed, the benefits of a loft conversion project are clear. For starters, you’ll create more space without the hassle of having to move home, ideal if your family is growing and you need an extra bedroom.

A loft conversion is likely to add value to your property too. House prices tend to be around 20% higher in properties with converted lofts, so when it comes to selling, the extra room can really pay off.

As with most home improvement projects, loft conversion costs can vary depending on your home and the type of work you have in mind. Prices start out at around £15,000 based on a basic ‘room in roof’, but for more extensive projects including plumbing work, the price can be much higher.

At Novuna Personal Finance, our maximum amount for loft extension loans is £35,000, enough to cover the costs of labour and materials for a wide range of loft conversion projects. To find out how much your loft conversion will cost, you should get a quote from a specialist, then use our loans calculator to work out your monthly repayments.

As with most home improvements, the value added will depend on a number of factors including the type of loft installation. According to PropertyPriceAdvice.co.uk, adding another bedroom with a loft conversion could increase the value of your home by 15%.

The location of your property will also determine how much a loft conversion will contribute to a home value increase. Depending on where you live, converting your attic can add anything from £35,000 to £100,000 in property value. In Central London, where demand for living space is much higher, the loft conversion value increase can be up to £200,000.

Most loft conversions are classed as 'permitted development,' which means they do not require planning permission if certain conditions are met. So, if you want a simple conversion with roof windows, you should be able to avoid the application process, but it's always a good idea to double-check.

However, if you intend to expand or change the roof area beyond its current boundaries, you will need approval. Whether or not your loft conversion is permitted development, you should still adhere to strict building regulations to ensure that the work is done safely.

It all depends on the size of your project but try to allow about three months – and even longer if you don't have designs yet and need planning approval or a party wall agreement.

However, it is essential to set realistic expectations from the beginning and to speak with a few builders to see who has the capability to take on the project and meet the deadlines you have set.

But don't let this deter you. As with the stress of moving, once the project is completed, you will quickly forget about it, and the final outcome will reward your efforts for years to come.

There are several things you need to consider before you begin the application process for a loft conversion loan. The most obvious question is whether your house is suitable for a loft conversion.

A key rule is that there should be at least 2.2m between the floor and the ceiling of your attic space, but there are other requirements too. You should consult a loft conversion specialist before you make any borrowing decisions.

Once you’ve established that your home is suitable for a loft extension, you can start working out how much you need to borrow. Remember to factor in costs for decorating and electrical work, as well as materials and labour.

There are also building regulation fees to consider, and you’ll need to follow guidelines. The good news is that most houses don’t require loft conversion planning permission. However, there are exceptions such as listed properties.