will i be allowed to build a roof terrace?

Question

i live in the attic (3rd) floor of a large 2 storey victorian house - which is also locally listed... living in the top gives me full and sole access to a further large attic above. my question is whether i will be allowed to build a roof terrace in my attic space - does it belong to me? am i likely to get planning permission? i own a share of the freehold so there are no complicated landlord discussions.. any advice gratefully received

Answer 1

Only planning permission can answer this question. Write off for it.

Answer 2

You need to hire a Structural Engineer in your area. Depending on the value of the project, most Authorities Having Jurisdiction will not grant you a permit unless you submit to them drawings that have been stamped by a Professional Engineer. Also, there are more factors involved, other than the capacity of people, that need to be calculated when determining your roof load. Most of these factors depend on where you live because each area has different requirements. For example: if you live in California your seismic requirements are much different than if you lived in Texas. Or if you live in Florida you have wind loads from hurricanes to factor. Same thing goes for snow and rain. Also, for your existing roof, you would need to know what species of lumber was used to build it since different species have different tensile and compressive strengths. A Structural Engineer from your area would be familiar with these requirements and can point you in the right direction. To save you some money, many Engineers will be happy to review your drawings and stamp them for a small fee. Or they can do the entire design. Good Luck! Hope I was helpful.

Answer 3

Doubt it, you own the 3rd floor. Although you have soel access to the loft space does this really mean you own it ? Maybe not. I would say the loft space is communal maintenence access only.

Talk to the local council about outline planning permission and refer to the deeds and freehold agreement to see what that says. If its ambiguous then you are likely to have to enter into agreement with the other freeholders. Which is like to result in you paying them to remove thier acces to the communal roof. you may also end up taking full responsibility for maintenance of the roof.

Answer 4

One other thing no one else has mentioned is the weight of the plants and soil. You would have to have all the beams made strong enough to take the weight. I think if you own the top flat then you must own the roof but as advised go to your council for advice.

Good luck to you - I hope it all goes the way you wish.

Answer 5

idoubt if you will get permission on a listed building to construct a roof terrace ..but if you did get permission you would have submit drawings ..and the cost of constructing a terrace at that height would be out of your reach ..scaffolding to full height ...removal of section of roof whilst still keeping watertite ....honest ly its not worth it ..howether go to your builders merchants ..get a velux catalogue ..in it you can obtain a roof light which opens out into a balcony..it might be just what you want

Answer 6

i used to work as a strata manager and if the building is strata owner it is not looking good. that space is owned by everyone that owns the building just like the gardens and stair wells you would have to write to the building manager and get a meeting of owner to see what can be done. it you do anything to that space before getting approval you my have to pay for it to be changed back and pay a fine. hope i could help.

Answer 7

it'd be up to Xoning ordnances and A Historical comission if they're involved............

Answer 8

you are renting-the house is not yours. NO