Articles
Upward extensions under the new 2020 Permitted Development Rights
Are double storey loft extensions achievable? In 2020 the UK government introduced sweeping new rules (in theory) allowing upward extensions, categorised under Classes AA, AB, AC, and AD. These classes can allow for generous upward extensions under permitted...
City Lofts London Awarded Best of Houzz 2023
City Lofts London Awarded Best of Houzz 2023 The annual people’s choice award recognises professionals among the Houzz community who stand out in both talent and customer service [London, UK], 15 February, 2023 – City Lofts London has won a “Best of Houzz” award for...
6 steps to complete your house renovation on a high
You're ready to complete your house renovation when your builder has returned to site at the close of the agreed defects liability period to address any lingering issues, before collecting the retention payment, and that’s that – project finished. During the...
Common construction disputes that can arise on a building project
With the best house extension process and the best practices followed, you will have naturally reduced the risk of a home improvement disaster. However, no plan is completely foolproof and incidents can still occur, so let’s consider some of the common construction...
8 crazy mistakes to avoid during house extensions
House extensions: everything you need to avoid As we have seen on our sojourn through the house extensions process, the road-to-home improvement glory is littered with potholes, each of which could leave your renovation plans with a nasty, potentially journey-ending...
How to interact with your builder effectively
Working with a builder can be difficult. Creating an environment of clear and simple communication between you, your design team and your build team is extremely important throughout the house extension process. Here are five best practices of how to interact with...
4 stages to closing out a building project
Understand the steps to closing out a building project Knowing how to successfully lead to a construction project closeout is crucial. The final stages of construction represent a potentially vulnerable point in the client–builder relationship, so it is critical to...
How much does a loft conversion cost?
How much does a loft conversion cost? This question has to be in the top five most commonly asked questions that folk ask when first considering getting a loft conversion. Moreover the answer to this question is the most commonly wrongly answered. So how much does a...
Fibreglass VS Rubberoid Roof
When it comes to roofing materials, two options that are commonly used are fiberglass and rubberoid. Here we are compairing Fibreglass VS Rubberoid Roof, so that you can make a better and informed decision. Both have their own set of pros and cons, and it's important...
Tolerance and contingency in construction
What do we mean by tolerance and contingency in construction and what does it mean for homeowners? Tolerance and contingency in construction are similar but different concepts. As a homeowner undertaking a house extension, it is handy to know what they are, why they...
Snagging list: how to snag your building project effectively
Snagging is an integral part of closing out any building project. It's important to know what is a snagging list for a successful building project. You may already be familiar with the term, particularly if you have undergone some sort of building renovation in past....
Turn a Leaky Roof into a Loft Conversion
There are many costs that are associated with owning a home and each month alone presents a whole range of bills that have to be paid. However, homes can cost more money, especially when things go wrong and that is specifically true for the roof of your home.
“Go to an attic conversion specialist, because there’s no disconnect between the design and the actual physical build”- Deepak, our Sales Manager, interviewed by Houzz
“A loft surveyor takes a design brief from the client and surveys the property internally and externally” – Deepak, City Lofts London Surveyor. Find out more about lofts conversion in London
We have been awarded best of houzz 2019, again!
Awarded by the community of over 40 million monthly users, annual BOH badge highlights home renovation & design professionals with Top ratings and most popular home designs
Need more space but can’t afford to move?
It’s time to consider a front house extension. You can have your loft converted into a bright, airy additional living space.
7 Best Micro Homes For Your Attic Conversion
When it comes to choosing the best Micro Homes for your attic it always helps to see the projects that City Lofts London have already created. Here are seven of the best
Essential Items You Need After Your Loft Has Been Converted
Going through the process of having your loft converted will be one of the best decisions you ever make. You can have your input into the design and the layout and ensure that it is a space that fits your needs in every possible way. However, once the work has been completed, you now have the fun of deciding on the fittings and fixtures you need. This is the exciting part of the process and that part where you really can put your own stamp on your new space.
7 Christmas Decoration Ideas For Your Loft
Christmas is a magical time of year and what makes it even better is the fact that many of us choose to decorate our homes. We spend a lot of time decorating our living rooms, our windows as well as the external area of our home but why not extend that into other areas of our homes such as our loft conversion. Just because the loft is positioned in the highest point of the property and often not seen by many, it doesn’t mean that it has to remain neglected when it comes to embracing all things Christmas. So, why not make the right moves and choose to decorate your loft, so it really does feel like Christmas every time you enter it. With that in mind, what decorations would you require to turn your loft into a magical Christmas experience during December?
Mansard vs Dormer Loft Conversion: All You Need To Know
Choosing to convert your loft will enable you to make use of space that is often left redundant in many homes. Often, loft space is vast and that means that homeowners have the chance to increase the size of their property without making any real structural changes in the same way that other forms of building work do. When it comes to loft conversions, homeowners have options and that means that you can choose the kind of conversion that fits your needs.
3 Home Renovations To Invest In
Every homeowner considers changes that they can make to their property from time to time. This could be simply from boredom or due to the fact that their needs and/or circumstances have changed. Moving house on a regular basis is not a practical or cost-effective...
Seven Stunning and Inspirational Loft Conversion Ideas
it’s time to think about having your loft converted into a bright, airy additional living space instead. With this in mind, we’ve put together a few bite-sized ideas, together with seven case studies to help you make up your mind.
Perfecting Your Property: How to Create a Jaw-Dropping Home
Perfecting your home is no easy feat. Not only will you have many rooms to transform, but you will also need a considerable amount of money to do so. As a result, it could take many years of hard work and investment. But, no matter how much effort you have made, there...
What does a loft conversion cost?
“What does a loft conversion cost?” is understandably the most asked question amongst homeowners looking to carry out their loft conversion. Unfortunately, there is no single answer, as one size does not fit all. There are several dozen contributing factors that...
Hampton Builder Wins (another) Award For Best Customer Service
PRESS RELEASE 22.01.18: City Lofts London of Hampton Wick Awarded Best Of Houzz 2018, Customer Service Category Over 40 Million Monthly Unique Users Nominated Best Home Improvement and Design Professionals in the UK and Around the World London, January 19, 2018 –...
Attic Conversion Cost
Attic conversion cost Not surprisingly a lot of people search “attic conversion cost” when they want to know an attic conversion cost for their home. What is surprising is just how wrong the results of the search actually are. An attic conversion cost will range from...
Press Release: City Lofts named London’s Heavenly Builder
16.05.17 PRESS RELEASE, Ridgemount PR (Mortlake) Deepak & Kulveer of City Lofts have been named the most Heavenly Builder in the London Region as part of the Federation of Master Builders’ (FMB) Master Builder Awards 2017. Now in its 13th year, the Master...
Loft Conversion Architect
Mini-guide on loft conversion Architects. What is a loft conversion Architect? As the name suggests a loft conversion Architect is an Architect who produces plans for loft conversions. More pertinently this particular breed of Architect specialises in loft conversions...
Loft Conversion Plans
Mini-guide on how to get your loft conversion plans off the ground What are loft conversion plans? Loft conversion plans are a set of architectural drawings and calculations produced with the purpose of designing a loft conversion, which complies with both local...
Professional Contractors in London
Professional Builder in London Why it pays to hire a professional Builder When planning a home improvement, the first port of call for most of us is to look for a builder to carry out the work, however, most people don’t have a builder on speed dial and need to find...
Things to look out for when buying a house for a loft conversion
Buying a house for a loft conversion Each week City Lofts receives 2-3 calls from folk looking to buy a property specifically with a view to converting the loft. The burning question is, can the loft on the property I want to buy be converted? For investors wanting to...
Loft Conversion Price
It is not a surprise that most people search “loft conversion price” when unsurprisingly enough they want a loft conversion price. However what is a surprise is just how wrong the results of the search are. According to a leading search engine (so it must be true,...
Officially the UK’s most customer-friendly Contractors
City Lofts London, Awarded Best Of Houzz 2017, Over 40 Million Monthly Unique Users Nominated Best Home Improvement and Design Professionals in the UK and Around the World London, England, 20th January 2017 – City Lofts London has won “Best Of Customer Service” on...
Queens Park Loft Conversion
Read the full transcript of this Queens Park loft conversion and watch the full before and after video, at the end of the case study. Please introduce yourselves… I'm Jane, and I'm Brent. Thomas. And this is our house…. Why did you opt for a loft conversion? This was...
Willesden Loft Conversion
Read the full transcript of this Willesden loft conversion and watch the full before and after video, at the end of the case study. Tell us about yourself and the project… Hi, I'm Simon Morgan and we're here in my house to talk about the work City Lofts did for me. I...
Whitton Loft Conversion
Read the full transcript of this Whitton loft conversion and watch the full before and after video, at the end of the case study. Describe the work carried out… Okay, so we converted a loft and we added a bedroom and an en-suite. Why did you want a loft conversion?...
Oxhey Loft Conversion
Read the full transcript of this Oxhey loft conversion and watch the full before and after video, at the end of the case study. Why did you need a loft conversion? There were two reasons I would say. One was the requirement that we wanted an en-suite master bedroom,...
Mapesbury Park Loft Conversion
Read the full transcript of this Mapesbury loft conversion and watch the full before and after video, at the end of the case study. Please introduce yourself… Renee Laub. What work did you have carried out? The alteration was already done, the physical alteration was...
Kensal Rise Loft Conversion Full Transcript
Read the full transcript of this Kensal Rise loft conversion and watch the full before and after video, at the end of the case study. Please introduce yourself… My name's Alex I've recently had a loft conversion and extension with City Lofts. Tell us about the...
Leytonstone Loft Conversion
Read the full transcript of this Leytonstone loft conversion and watch the full before and after video, at the end of the case study. Why did you want a loft conversion? I had wanted a two bedroom house, really, but couldn’t afford to actually move to a two bedroom...
Fulham Loft Conversion Full Transcript
Read the full transcript of this Fulham loft conversion and watch the full before and after video, at the end of the case study. Please introduce yourself… My name's Tim Donovan and my property is in Gowan Avenue in Fulham in London. Why did you want a loft...
Acton Loft Conversion Full Transcript
Read the full transcript of this Acton loft conversion, and watch the full before and after video at the end of the case study. Introduce yourself… Hi, my name's Han. I run a graphic design company in central London. Describe the work carried out… Well it was a mid...
Loft Conversion Costs
Loft Conversion Cost Understandably, home owners want to know the loft conversion cost before any other consideration. And quite frustratingly this is the most difficult thing to get any meaningful information on. This article will give you what you’re looking for....
PRESS RELEASE – BUILD Magazine Announces The 2016 Construction and Engineering Awards Winners.
' United Kingdom, 26 October 2016 - BUILD Magazine has announced winners of the 2016 Construction and Engineering Awards. The construction and engineering industries are the hidden heroes of the building landscape: they change the face of the world around us, but are...
9 hacks to avoid the pain of a neighbourly dispute during a home improvement project
You may have lived on the same tree-lined street for a generation. You may have your neighbours over for a festive glass of sherry for Christmas. Your children may walk to school together and you hold one anothers spare key. But no matter how well you get on with your...
The difference between an estimate and a quote
This short article explains the difference between a quote and an estimate. It comes straight from a builder and was written in response to a lot of misleading information floating about within online forums and from Solicitors writing on behalf of the trade industry....
Guide to Loft conversions in Conservation Areas:
Here’s how to get a loft conversion if you happen to live within a conservation area
So What If I Don’t Serve a Party Wall Notice?
If you’re thinking about carrying out a loft conversion or extension, then this article by our partners at 1996 Party Wall is a MUST READ… So what if I don’t serve a party wall notice? This is a question that as Party Wall Surveyors we are often asked and we hear the...
Loft Conversions in Flats
We are currently seeing a massive surge in interest from Londoners living in flats and maisonettes, who are desperate to convert their loft space the gain that precious extra bedroom, and at the same time increase the value of their property. Loft conversions in flats...
Types of Loft Conversion
Ok folks, so by now you know what a loft conversion is, right? We know it’s the process of taking a dusty old attic space and transforming a stunning, light-filled room that will turbo-boost the value of your home. But did you know there are different types of...
Loft Extensions: What is a Loft Extension?
So for us urbanites in the concrete metropolis it’s seems a pretty obvious enquiry, but for completeness here’s a quick lowdown on exactly what a loft extension is, and what a loft extension is not: What a loft extension is not: The decade from the late 1970’s to late...
How much does a loft conversion cost?
This question has to be in the top five most commonly asked questions that folk ask when first considering getting a loft conversion. Moreover the answer to this question is most commonly answered incorrectly. So how much does a loft conversion cost?...
10 Amazing Loft Conversion Ideas
10 Amazing Loft Conversion Ideas... So maybe you’re thinking about getting a loft conversion done, or perhaps have already started. Good design is key to giving your household the facilities and space the family needs, and also in making your investment in a loft...
How a Loft Conversion In North London Can Make You Richer
How a loft conversion in North London can make you richer
5 things to know before starting a loft conversion
5 things to know before starting a loft conversion
How loft conversions are helping fix London’s housing crisis
London’s housing crisis is severe and immediate, particularly for growing families who cannot move home. Successive governments have failed to help but the solution has been here all along; convert disused the attics of properties across London into additional living space to ease overcrowding.
3 Reasons to Invest in a Loft Conversion
Deepak Singh Udassi of City Lofts London recently gave an interview to a London Sourcing experts based in Fulham, London, about the top 3 reason to invest in a loft conversion. Here’s a summary of that interview… (Deepak): There are 101 reasons to convert your loft....
Market Update December 2014, Loft Conversions
Current loft conversion in progress The boys have just started work on a new loft in Kensal Green in NW London. The property is a classic Victorian mid-terraced family home and falls within a conservation zone, so we’re working to some stringent design guidelines to...
City Lofts Market Update, October 2014
Jobs in progress So what have we been up to this month? As a goliath project in Swiss Cottage draws to a close after 8 months, and the finishing touches are made to a loft conversion in Fulham, the City Lofts team take their tool boxes, drills and spirit levels and...
*Press Release* City Lofts London in the news AGAIN
This time providing expert commentary on a feature article in loft conversions on Houzz.co.uk https://www.houzz.co.uk/ideabooks/32468387/list/lofts-what-to-consider-when-planning-a-loft-conversion City Lofts London – award-winning builders www.CityLoftsLondon.com...
City Lofts London’s Insider Guide To Wood Flooring
When it comes to wood flooring, a lot of people cant see the wood for the trees (sorry, couldn’t help myself). So here’s a very simple guide on what you need to know. If you’re thinking about laying down wood flooring, you have 3 options: 1. Laminate 2. Hardwood 3....
Why paying for quality ALWAYS pays
Insider's tip #21: A GRP resin roof can last 2.5 times LONGER than a standard flat roof. It might be a few hundred pounds more expensive in the short term, but in the long run it will save you THOUSANDS in lower maintenance/repair/replacement costs City Lofts London –...
Letter to the Editor of The Guardian Newspaper, on London’s housing crisis
The Guardian Editor, Alan Rusbridger The Guardian Newspaper Kings place 90 York Way London N1 9GU 21st August 2014 RE: Response to G2’s article on Basements Dear Mr Rusbridger I read intently Tim Dowling’s well-researched article on basements from yesterday’s...
Could You Get More For Your House With A Loft Conversion?
Loft conversions have become a popular feature in UK homes for a number of reasons - not least because they can increase the value of a property quite drastically. The housing market is a tough place to shop right now and a loft conversion allows buyers to get an...
Loft Conversions vs Extensions: The Ultimate Home Improvement
If you're looking to create more space, improve or add value to your property, there are a number of ways you can better your home - but two options stand out in particular. Home extensions used to be the popular choice for UK homeowners wanting a little more room to...
Key Questions: Is My Loft Suitable For A Loft Conversion?
When it comes to any home improvement there are some key questions you need to answer from day one. Loft conversions are no different and top of the list of thing to ask is whether your loft is suitable for converting. The good news is that loft conversions are...
6 Fundamentals Of A Successful Loft Conversion
Whatever your reasons for investing in a loft conversion, you want a build that compliments your home and maximises the value of your property. Every design is different, with a touch of personality from the homeowner and their individual needs - but there are some...
Convert Your Thinking: Creative Ideas For Your Loft Conversion
Loft conversions have become the go-to home improvement extension. Hardly surprising really when it adds up to 25% to your property and creates more space in the family home. An attic converted into a bedroom with an en-suite combo is therefore and ideal solution! But...
Fitting Insulation And Ventilation In Your New Loft Conversion
Installing a loft conversion in your dead space can be a bit of a money spinner. Not only does it add significant value to your house and save you a small fortune than shelling out tens of thousands in moving costs, with the right insulation and ventilation you can...
5 Reasons You May Not Need To Move After All
As time goes by, the family home can start to feel a bit cramped. Moving house is a big deal though. For some people it is impossible. Upgrades cost money and a bigger home normally comes at a compromise. For an extra bedroom you don't get the same quality area you...
Get More For Your Property Before You Move
In the current climate, it’s a tough market for the home buyer. The housing situation in the UK is an unforgiving place – and is reluctant to get any easier as the economy gets back on track. Surely things will get better at some point, at least that's how it normally...
Building Regulations and Fire Precautions You Should Know When Converting Attic Space
In general, you do not have to apply for planning permission to convert your loft into a liveable attic space. However, there are some exceptions which you can read about here. You do however need to adhere to the building regulations of your local council. It is...
A Cost-Effective Solution To Battle Britain’s Crowded Homes Crisis
More than half the homes in Britain are too small for families to live in according to research by Cambridge University. Shocking studies show that 'rabbit-hutch' Britain is failing to house its growing population and as a result millions are living in overcrowded...
Loft Conversions Are Less Hassle And More Benefits
Experts have warned that the UK housing market faces “clearly unsustainable,” and is facing a natural correction. Buyers are baulking at rocketing house prices because of the high investment risk. If you buy a house now you risk losing out in the long-run. With...
Clear Out The Junk: Preparing For A Loft Conversion
Attic space is typically used for storing junk you no longer use, or things you need from time to time, but do not have sufficient storage space in the main body of your house. If you are planning a loft conversion project you will need to clear out your attic in...
Do You Need Planning Permission To Develop A Loft Extension?
In 2008, the coalition government introduced new rules with regards to planning permission for home extensions. The focus behind the idea is to remove 80,000 home owners from the planning system each year although not everybody qualifies. Under the terms of “Permitted...
Why Converting An Attic Room Is A Cost-Effective Business Project For Landlords
The rising costs of house prices in the UK mean that more people are looking to rent. As the landlord of a buy-to-let property you can make a reasonable income, but with living costs and tax implications, you still have to meet your own financial obligations. Adding...
Add Value To Your Home With A Loft Conversion
If you're looking to add value to your property, a loft conversion should top your list of options. A recent study by Nationwide shows adding a loft room can increase the value of your home by up to 21%. According to the Guardian, a loft conversion is the best home...
Considerations When Converting Your Attic Space
Converting your attic space is a potentially lucrative and exciting venture – however, before you jump feet first into the building process, take note of things you should consider. Hire a loft conversion specialist Loft conversions are not a DIY job as height...
How To Make Money From A Loft Conversion
Loft conversions are a great opportunity to add value to your home. And a well-crafted loft conversion will not only add value to the property, but allows you to make money from your renovated roof. Unlike extensions and most other home builds, you don't have to wait...
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make When Converting A Loft
Loft conversions can offer many rewards – but only if they are done properly. All too often, home owners rush into renovating attic space without covering all the bases and doing the proper planning. As a result, the dream loft conversion turns into a disappointing...
What To Look For In A Loft Conversion Contractor
A loft conversion is one of the most profitable investments you will make. To get the best ROI however, you need to make the most of your attic space and employ an experienced loft conversion specialist you can rely on to do the job properly. Hiring a specialist...
What Legal Issues Are Involved If I Want A Loft Conversion?
A loft conversion can provide many benefits to a household, but it is not a simple DIY job you can carry out on your own. Other than the skills required to make the most of your attic space you also need to ensure you do not breach any building regulations. Since the...
Loft Conversions For Boomerang Kids
For many families in the UK, the financial future of the looks bleak. For young adults harbouring the desire to go to university it is even worse. A new study shows that the average student will leave higher education saddled with £44,000 of debt. When looking for...
Invest In The Value of Your Home
Loft Conversions Increase The Value of Your Home Phil Spencer of the hit TV show Location, Location, Location, says the easiest way to add value to your house is a loft conversion. There are a number of reasons for this; loft conversions are more cost-effective than...
Choosing An Architect To Design Your Loft Conversion
One of the first questions we get asked is whether you need an architect to design your loft conversion. Well, no you don’t, but it is highly recommended that you do. Loft conversions are projects for specialists and although there are upfront costs to cover an...
How Can You Benefit From A Loft Conversion?
The reason for building a loft conversion depends on your personal circumstances, and there are more benefits to renovating your attic room than you may think. With the rising costs of just about everything in the UK, the future financial prospects is a concern for...
10 Common Mistakes Made By Home Owners When Converting An Attic Room
Loft conversions have many benefits if it is done correctly. When things go wrong however, disaster can ensue. The good news is an attic crisis can be easily avoided by steering away from making these 10 common mistakes. 1. Hire a professional loft specialist Loft...
Five Characteristics of Your Ideal Loft Conversion
Loft conversions are great way to add value to your property. Generally cheaper than other types of property extensions, loft conversions give purpose to unused space in your home. The foundations are already there waiting to be used. Get it right and you add more...
