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  1. Welcome to Planning Portal
  2. Do you need permission?
  3. Common projects
  4. Loft conversion
  5. Sustainability

Loft conversion

Sustainability
  1. Planning Permission
  2. Protected Species
  3. Is building regulations approval needed for a loft conversion?
  4. Building regulations: Existing walls and foundations
  5. Building regulations: New dormer
  6. Building regulations: New internal elements
  7. Building regulations: Fire safety
  8. Building regulations: Stairs
  9. Mini Guide
  10. Case studies
  11. Getting your job done safely
  12. Sustainability
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Sustainability

A loft conversion offers an eco-friendly way to build, since it helps you to utilise existing space within your property. 

Here are some points to consider to help you carry out your loft conversion in a sustainable way: 

  • Insulation – It’s important to ensure your loft is well-insulated to prevent heat loss. Try to use sustainable insulation materials in your loft where possible. 1
  • Windows - installing windows with double or triple glazing will prevent heat loss and therefore reduce energy consumption. 2You should also look to achieve natural ventilation as much as possible, to keep the space cooler during summer months. 
  • Environmentally-friendly building materials – you can look for certifications such as Forest Stewardship Council-certified wood3 and use sustainable flooring options like reclaimed wood where possible. You can look to use environmentally friendly materials with a high percentage of recycled content. It’s also important to make sure that durable materials are chosen, to prevent the need for frequent maintenance or replacement. 

It’s worth considering using renewable energy sources to power your project. Consider incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels to generate electricity and using energy-efficient lighting, such as LED bulbs. 

It's also imperative to ensure that any waste connected to the project is recycled and/or reused as much as possible.

Keep sustainability, durability, and longevity in mind when speaking with the tradespeople you're working with. Use our 'find a professional4' tool to locate the right professional for your project.

  1. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/energy-saving/loft-insulation
  2. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/common-projects/energy-saving/glazing
  3. https://uk.fsc.org/what-is-fsc
  4. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/planning/planning-applications/find-a-trade-professional

Disclaimer

This is an introductory guide and is not a definitive source of legal information. Guidance is based on national rules, but additional local rules may also affect what permissions are needed. You should check if this is the case before applying or starting work.
Guidance here relates to the planning regime for England, the policy in Wales may differ. If in doubt contact your local planning authority. Please note, local authorities may charge a fee for pre-application advice.
Read our full disclaimer1.

  1. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/services/terms-and-disclaimer/terms-and-conditions

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    The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). All content © 2025 Planning Portal.