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The Paddick Process

Loft Conversion process

The Paddick Process for Loft Conversions

A loft conversion transforms your roof space into functional, additional living areas, adding both value and versatility to your home. Because these projects involve working with existing roof structures, they require careful planning, detailed assessment, technical drawings, and structural calculations, which can make loft conversions take longer than many other home improvements.

The process starts with a site visit to assess the loft, roof structure, and access. This helps identify the work required and any potential constraints. Agreeing on requirements and layouts from the outset ensures the project runs smoothly.

Following the site visit, we produce detailed architectural and structural drawings along with structural calculations to ensure the conversion is safe and stable. This includes assessing roof reinforcements, floor loadings, and any structural alterations needed.

Once completed, the drawings are submitted to you for review. Any changes to the agreed design will require revisions. Revisions involve additional work, and amended projects are placed back into the workflow queue, which may affect overall timescales.

After finalising all documentation, the full package is submitted to the local planning authority and/or building control for review and approval. We know this process can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time home owners, which is why we’ve developed The Paddick Process—a clear, structured approach to guide you confidently through every stage.

Our proven 8-step process takes you from your initial conversation with our friendly team, through the site survey, architectural design, and detailed drawings, all the way to final documentation and submissions. Each stage is broken down into simple, manageable steps, so you always know what’s happening and what comes next, no jargon, no surprises. The diagram below outlines each stage of our Loft Conversion Process, giving you a clear picture of how we support your project from start to finish. If your project falls outside our standard services or you’d like additional guidance, just get in touch, we’re always happy to explain things clearly and tailor the process to suit your needs.

The Paddick Process Designs

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need planning permission for a Loft conversion?

Some extensions fall under Permitted Development, but many require full planning permission depending on size, location, and design.

Timescales vary, but planning decisions typically take around 8 weeks from submission, excluding design and preparation time.

Yes, but any changes require revised drawings and a new submission, which will affect timescales.

📖 Step-by-Step Support Guide’s
📞Questions? Contact us today for expert advice, and let’s bring your development project to life!

    All of Paddick’s services

    We specialise in high-quality architectural designs, from concept to completion. Our team ensures that all designs are commercially aware and, meet building regulations, without loosing focus of the client visions.

    Architectural sketch layout – Initial design concepts for clear visualisation
    Architectural feasibility design – Assessing project viability and compliance
    House type working drawings – Detailed technical plans for construction
    Architects plans – Co-ordinated designs taking engineering designs into account
    Architectural site plans – Comprehensive layouts for planning approval

    Our civil engineering services provide innovative and regulation-compliant infrastructure designs, including drainage, highways, and site assessments.

    Flood risk assessments & flood risk assessment report – Ensuring compliance with local authority requirements
    Flood risk assessment consultants – Expert guidance on risk mitigation
    Drainage calculations – Optimising surface water management
    Surface water storage design – Preventing flooding
    Highways designs – Safe and efficient road designs and access planning
    Plot drainage design – Tailored solutions for residential and commercial sites
    External works design – Hardscaping and external levels indication
    Cut and fill design – Earthworks planning to minimize cart off sit

    We deliver structural engineering solutions that are functional and commercially aware in all types of construction projects.

    Beam calculations – Load-bearing assessments for structural stability
    Foundation design – Foundation designed to be fit for purpose for the end use combined with the natural ground conditions
    Ground floor structural design & Upper floors structural design – Robust, efficient designs for multi-level structures
    Roof structural design – Secure roofing solutions for all building types
    House type line loads – Load assessments for different house structures
    Signage and flag wind loading design – Ensuring safety in high-wind environments
    Condition surveys & Structural surveys – Assessing structural stability and maintenance needs
    Snagging reports – Identifying and resolving defects before project handover

    We facilitate seamless adoption inspections and handovers, ensuring compliance with local authority requirements.

    Initial inspection – Identifying early-stage construction issues
    Snag list – Comprehensive defect identification and resolution
    Tender works – Assistance in contractor selection and bidding
    Pre-maintenance inspection – Ensuring infrastructure readiness
    Adoption inspection/handover – Smooth transition to local authorities
    As-built drawings – Accurate documentation of completed projects

    Our project management services streamline construction workflows, ensuring efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality control.

    Produce / review drawings – Ensuring all designs meet the clients needs as well as building control standards
    Produce scope of works – Defining clear project requirements
    Create tender pack and review quotes – Facilitating competitive and fair contractor selection
    Manage contractors – Overseeing project execution for optimal results

    Partner with Paddick Engineering for Expert Development Services

    With extensive experience in architectural design, civil engineering, and structural engineering, Paddick Engineering is your trusted partner for high-quality, regulation-compliant development solutions.

    📞 Contact us today for expert advice, and let’s bring your development project to life!

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