Planning Permission for Attic Conversions and Extensions
Transforming your home with an attic conversion or extension can add valuable space and increase property value, but before work begins, it’s essential to know whether planning permission is required. At Property Health Check, we help you understand the regulations, assess your project’s compliance, and guide you through the planning process with clarity and confidence.
Understanding Planning Permission
Planning permission ensures that building works are carried out in line with local development regulations, protecting the character of neighbourhoods and ensuring safety and environmental standards are met.
While some projects qualify as exempted development, others require formal permission from your local authority. Determining which category your project falls into depends on several factors, including:
- The size and height of the extension or dormer
- The distance to boundaries and roads
- The overall increase in floor area or volume
- External alterations such as roof changes, windows, or balconies
Our team reviews your plans and advises whether your proposed works are likely to be exempt or if an application is required.
Guide price: From €1,225 (including VAT), excluding local authority and newspaper advertising fees.
When Planning Permission May Not Be Required
In many cases, attic conversions and small extensions can proceed without planning permission under exempted development rules. For example:
- Internal attic conversions that don’t alter the roof profile usually don’t require permission.
- Rear extensions up to 40 square metres on a detached house may be exempt (subject to certain limits).
However, exemptions are subject to strict criteria. Even a minor roof alteration, such as adding a dormer window or increasing ridge height, may require permission.
When Planning Permission Is Required
You will likely need planning permission if your project:
- Changes the front roof slope facing a public road
- Involves dormer extensions larger than the exempted limits
- Extends the property beyond the maximum allowable area
- Impacts neighbouring boundaries or privacy
- Is part of a protected structure or conservation area
If permission is needed, we can assist with the planning drawings, documentation, and submission to the local authority.
How We Help
At Property Health Check, we provide professional planning and building assessment services to support your attic conversion or extension from the earliest stage.
Our team can:
- Review your plans to determine if planning permission is required
- Prepare drawings and documentation for submission
- Ensure your design complies with planning and building regulations
- Liaise with your architect, builder, or local authority as needed
- Provide structural surveys and certification once the works are complete
With over 20 years’ experience assessing thousands of Irish homes, we understand what local authorities look for, helping you avoid costly delays and ensuring your project moves forward smoothly.
Get Started
Before you begin your attic conversion or extension, speak with our team to confirm your planning requirements. We’ll help you make informed decisions, keep your project compliant, and ensure your home improvements are built to last.
Guide price: From €1,225 (including VAT), excluding local authority and newspaper advertising fees.