Homeowners have been left in the dark about what they can and cannot do to their properties after the introduction of new laws.

The red tape busting legislation, which came into force in October, was supposed to make it easier for homeowners to extend their properties and avoid the need for planning applications.

However Brighton and Hove City Council and local construction firms have not been able to agree on the interpretation of the changes to the permitted development legislation.

One particular clause which is causing problems states loft conversions must be of “similar appearance” to the original materials of the property.

Loft conversion bosses believe they should be allowed to use felt on the new rooves, but say the council is taking the meaning of the clause literally and will not allow this, unless a property’s current roof has felt on it.

John Trimm and Steve Johnson, who both own loft conversion companies, said work is taking place across the city which may not comply with the legislation when it is finally decided and they are losing customers because of the indecision.

Mr Johnson said: “This is persecuting the homeowner, when it was supposed to help.

“People often extend, as to move from a three-bedroomed house to a four-bedroomed one would probably be around £75,000, whereas a conversion is around £30,000.”

Mr Trimm said: “Our main work is loft conversions and I can’t say to the homeowner “take a risk”.

“It is such a ridiculous situation. I have found 32 other authorities who are accepting the legislation in the spirit it was intended.”

Brighton and Hove City Council said it is seeking clarification from the Government.

Councillor Lynda Hyde, chairman of planning, said it was problematic for lots of authorities.

She said: “At a time when careful spending is such an issue for householders, businesses and local government, few can afford the unnecessary times and costs associated with this confusion.”

The council is working with East and West Sussex County Councils to agree a joint interpretation in the meantime.

Brian Berry, from the Federation of Master Builders, said: “This is a householders’ nightmare.

“Many local authorities do not favour loft conversions, so are trying to find ways to stop them from taking place.

“Anyone thinking of extending their home should think again because Brighton council is choosing to interpret it in a different way to how it was intended.”