Converting a commercial property into a residential one is increasingly becoming popular in the UK. Thanks to the profit potential and growing demand for housing units. Do you know in 2021, there were 1180 applications approved for office-to-residential conversions leading to a surge of 24% from the previous year? However, in 2023-24 out of 1226 applications, only 655 applications were approved leading to a refusal of 34% applications.

Hiring an experienced residential property surveyor near me will help you in getting your application approved for the successful conversion of a commercial unit into a residential one.

Commercial to residential conversion is daunting and comes with its own set of risks and challenges. Not all offices or retail stores can be converted into housing units or villas. Besides, you need to get planning permissions from local authorities. It requires meticulous planning, assessing the structural integrity of the building, doing a feasibility study, and attention to detail in all aspects.  

Check out how a seasoned chartered building surveyor near you can help in realize your objectives.

Understanding the Local Laws and Building Regulations

Before you consider the conversion of a commercial property into a residential unit, you must understand the permitted development rights specific to the type of building and the region.

A RICS-certified residential property surveyor near you is thoroughly acquainted with the building regulations and planning permissions required for such development. They will guide you about the permission guidelines and help you in getting the requisite planning permission.

Comprehensive Planning and Support in Filing Approval Application

Getting approval from the local authority is crucial before you convert any commercial complex into a living space. An experienced building surveyor will help you at every step from planning to filing an approval application with the relevant documents to the local council. As they are well-informed of the process, it will increase the chance of your application being approved by the local authorities.

Obtaining Permission for Conversion

Availing of the services of an independent property surveyor near you will help you get permission from the authority which would be a green signal to start the conversion process. However, the lack of information, mistakes in filling out the application form, or other causes may lead to rejection that an experienced surveyor can successfully tackle to give you peace of mind.

Structural Assessment of the Building

Before you transform any office into a housing unit, getting a comprehensive structural survey of the building is crucial. The detailed structural survey will reveal the structure and condition of the property, any defects and requirements for repair or modifications, and other safety issues. It will help you get in-depth knowledge about the building, and profitability of the conversion, and help you avoid costly surprises down the line after the purchase.

Identifying Potential Risks during Conversions

Converting a commercial property into a residential one comes with several risks, such as suitability issues, the requirement of plumbing and electrical systems, making structural changes, large upfront costs, and others. An experienced independent building surveyor will help you identify these risks and navigate successfully helping you realize your objective.

Monitoring the Construction Work

What’s more, a proficient chartered building surveyors near me will manage and monitor the construction work and ensure that it is carried out according to the blueprint or final approved building plan as per your requirements.

Takeaway

A few things can be more important for you to avail the services of an experienced and chartered building surveyor in the successful conversion of a commercial property into a residential one.

As you get approval from the local authority and a comprehensive structural survey report, this makes it easy for you to transform an office or a retail store into the house of your dreams. So, make it a point to invest wisely and get the services of a proficient building surveyor near you for a successful conversion.