We are all aware of the shortage of new homes in the UK, especially in London. Extending existing buildings is one solution so, given that there are so many sensitivities around 'building out’, we are beginning to accept that our rooftops hold the key to providing tens of thousands of highly desirable homes.  

Building on top of existing buildings is nothing new but it has always been extremely challenging due to both logistical and planning issues. Currently, we are seeing planning laws relax significantly, especially in London, leaving logistical issues as the main obstacle. Construction can be highly disruptive to residents and the local community for a ground-level site, let alone on a rooftop where work is much slower and more demanding. Then there's the transportation of materials and waste in and out of the building, constant presence of workers, noise from tools and heavy machinery, dust, wear and tear to common parts and unattractive scaffolding enclosing the building.

But there is another way freeholders and developers can maximise a rooftop's potential with minimal disruption: by installing prefabricated residential modules. These modules are built off-site then craned onto a roof, often in just one day. They are pre-wired, pre-plumbed and pre-fitted with entire bathrooms and kitchens, leaving very little on-site work before or after delivery. And modules can be anything from a simple extension to a luxury new penthouse. Residents of a communal building could very well leave for work and return to wonder what is different, before realising that there is an additional floor.

And it isn't only the owners of the roof space who benefit. Residents and owners of apartments within the same building do too since the value of the development allows for upgrades and renovations to common areas, replacements of old machinery and plant work, new security and privacy measures and sometimes an entirely new look for the building through rendering the façade. There may also be the option, space permitting, to create new facilities, ranging from bike sheds and charge points for electric cars to a gym, spa and residents club lounge.

Clearly, these upgrades and renovations can have a significant impact on the values of the existing apartments. An additional bonus is that the old roof is renewed, removing a liability that may otherwise require significant capital to maintain and eventually replace.

Just as all buildings are different, so too are the aims of the residents from building to building. Roof developments should always be undertaken collaboratively with the freeholders, whether that means work on behalf of the freeholder, a joint venture or purchasing the roof from the current owners. It is important that roof owners understand the options at their disposal and developers act collaboratively, as everyone can and should benefit from this approach to roof development.

Further information

Contact Pent Developments