Planning Permission for Attic Conversions

Transform unused roof space safely, compliantly and with confidence

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Planning Permission for Attic Conversions

Transform unused roof space safely, compliantly, and with confidence.

Converting your attic is one of the most effective ways to add valuable living space without increasing your home’s footprint. Whether you’re creating a new bedroom, office, or playroom, it’s vital to understand the planning rules and ensure the work is structurally sound.

At Property Health Check, our surveyors and structural engineers assess your property’s suitability for conversion, guide you through the planning requirements, and help ensure your project complies with building regulations.

Do You Need Planning Permission for an Attic Conversion?

While many attic conversions proceed under the exempted development rules, some projects will require a formal planning application depending on the scale and alterations involved.

Converted attic with curtains and bed and timber floor

Attic conversions that may not require planning permission

  • Internal conversions which do not alter the shape or height of the existing roof.
  • Conversions that do not include dormer windows or roof?windows on the front elevation facing a public road.
  • Works which maintain the property’s external appearance consistent with exempt criteria.
Planning drawing with hand holding pen

Attic conversions that will likely require planning permission

  • Any dormer extension that changes the roof profile or increases ridge/hip height.
  • Insertions of windows or roof-lights in the front-elevation roof slope (facing the public road).
  • Conversions that cross the exempt development thresholds (either volume, head-height, external changes, or location).
  • Projects involving a protected structure or located in a conservation area.

 

Our team will review your plans, check your exempt status, and advise whether permission is needed.

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How We Help

At Property Health Check, we provide professional planning and building assessment services to support your attic conversion 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, 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

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Frequently Asked Questions

An attic conversion can add valuable space to a home, but it’s important to know when planning permission is required and when works fall under exempt development. Property Health Check helps identify any compliance issues during pre-purchase or design stages.