HOME owners are being warned to take care when considering loft conversions.

Building control officers at Darlington Borough Council say work carried out by cowboy builders or over-enthusiastic DIY fans could bring homes crashing down or trap families in burning houses.

Anyone considering such changes is urged to contact the council for advice.

Building control manager Stuart Muckle said: "We have real concerns that when people start work they can often make the structure of the building unstable. Other problems include work which does not comply with fire regulations, or making stairs too steep."

Conversions carried out without building control approval will come to light and cause problems when home owners decide to move, and sales could even fall through because of them.

Anyone who has queries on building matters can contact the council's building control department on (01325) 388611.