Background
We often receive enquiries about the use of an existing loft area for storage. Proposals range from simply boarding over a small area of the ceiling joists to forming an entire room with a fixed staircase.
Policy
As far as this Authority is concerned, the formation of a room or rooms is a loft conversion and the provisions necessary for a loft conversion are required. Similarly, if a fixed staircase is being provided to the loft in a house or maisonette of two storeys or more, it will be treated as a loft conversion. For more information on loft conversions, please refer to Guidance Note (8): Loft Conversions.
Where it is proposed to board over some or all of a roof void, irrespective of whether a rooflight is to be installed at the same time, a Building Regulations application may be required. If it can not be proven, either by reference to the tables in Approved Document A of the Building Regulations or by calculation, that the existing ceiling structure can safely take the increased loading, a Building Regulations application will be required.
This information was correct at the time of writing (September 2006).
Contact us
Building Control
Environment and Regeneration
Waltham Forest Council
Sycamore House
Forest Road
London E17 4JF
Tel 020 8496 3000
Email building.control@walthamforest.gov.uk
