A loft conversion is one of the most rewarding ways to add value and space to your home. It can unlock an unused storey, create an elegant principal suite, a quiet home office, or additional bedrooms – often boosting your property’s value by up to 20%. But with such a major investment, safety is paramount. Fire regulations are one of the most critical aspects of loft design, and they must be considered from the outset.

At Acre Design, we’ve guided hundreds of homeowners across Newcastle and the North East through loft conversions, ensuring that every detail – from the structure to the finishes – complies with UK Building Regulations, particularly Approved Document Part B (Fire Safety). Below we highlight the key principles.

Fire separation

The new storey must be separated from the rest of the property using fire-resistant construction. This often means:

• Upgrading ceilings beneath the loft with fire-rated plasterboard.
• Installing fire doors at the top and bottom of new staircases, and within any habitable rooms along escape routes.
• Applying intumescent coatings to exposed steel beams.
• Ensuring interior timbers are Class 1 rated.

Protected escape routes

Your design must allow a safe, fire-protected route from the loft to the main exit on the ground floor. Partition walls and corridors forming this escape path need to provide at least 30 minutes’ fire resistance.

Smoke detection

Mains-powered smoke alarms must be fitted on every floor, interconnected so that if one alarm activates, all will sound. The loft level must be included, with alarms installed in circulation spaces such as landings.

Fire doors

All internal doors along escape routes should be upgraded to fire doors with at least 20 minutes’ resistance. As these reduce glazing, natural light can be reintroduced through carefully planned rooflights or windows.

Windows and alternative escape

While escape windows are no longer mandatory if there is a protected stair route, many homeowners still opt for them. Any such window should have a clear opening of at least 0.33m² and be low enough to allow safe exit.

Expert loft design and fire safety guidance in Newcastle

Fire safety isn’t an optional extra – it’s central to protecting your family and ensuring your project is legally compliant. With Acre Design’s experience in loft conversions across Newcastle and the wider North East, we’ll ensure every technical requirement is met without compromising on the beauty of your new living space.

Contact us today to arrange your free consultation and start planning a loft conversion that combines elegance, practicality, and complete peace of mind.

Book an Ask the Expert call