Can someone explain this?

ebbe

Hi

I am trying to have the faq below clarified by my local council, but a straight answer is hard to come by.

Can someone explain, in plain language, this FAQ that appears on many of the county council websites?:

“Is the area of an attic conversion reckonable in assessing the 40sqm exemption limit for domestic extensions?

No.”

I have an 15sqm extension to the rear of my house. I want to convert my attic (into a non-habitable space) but I need to know whether the conversion will push me over the 40sqm exemption limit. If attic conversion isn’t counted, then I can relax.

Thanks a million.

muffler

"Attic conversion" is only relevant when providing habitable accommodation. Storage is exempt from planning.

ebbe

Thanks for your reply, Muffler.

So, have I got this right: attic square footage is only included in the overall floor area of the house when it is classed as a habitable space?

muffler

You are correct. Its one thing to use an undeveloped attic space as a storage area but if you proceed with converting it to habitable space then you will meed planning (depending on other factors) and need to comply with building regulations.

ebbe

Thanks very much.

I plan on flooring it and putting in a new stairs and a dormer window at the back. The space will be non habitable attic storage, so I’m happy to know it won’t interfere with the 40sqm exemption limit.

Thanks again.

Mellor

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/118382521#Comment_118382521

That will likely planning as you are putting in a dormer. There are no exemptions for dormers in the act. some councils might turn a blind eye.

Also, a light would be a lot easier than a dormer if it is really only a storage area.