ᐅ Should you already plan for future renovations (in an existing building)?

Hello everyone,

We are currently renovating a typical house built in 1965. After the first phase, we are basically broke, but you never know what might come up later... so we thought about possibly including an attic conversion as part of the current renovation (the attic is about 130m² (1400 sq ft) right now; I estimate an additional 35-50m² (375-540 sq ft)). The attic is currently unfinished. We are considering adding an external staircase later and then creating a duplex layout in the attic with an additional internal staircase. There is no development plan (building permit / planning permission) for this property.

I understand that we will probably need an architect and a structural engineer later on (at least because of the internal and external stairs), but for now, we don’t want to start that process yet. Still, maybe we can avoid some costly mistakes right from the start.

I have attached a cross-section with the following questions:

• Are we likely in building class 2 (in Baden-Württemberg)?
• Does a later conversion require full compliance with all fire protection regulations, including a second means of escape?
• I assume that a duplex layout requires two escape routes from the top floor?
• All escape routes should theoretically be accessible by an aerial ladder, and the access roads must be suitable for fire trucks without issue / the area will be further densified later.
• Are there any common pitfalls that could make obtaining a building permit impossible? (Just asking statistically :-))

Perhaps some of you have already converted your attic and can share your experiences. We have already installed separate electricity meters and planned the wiring accordingly.

I hope the question is not too general, otherwise feel free to ask for more details!

Regards
Hexle