How much is a loft conversion?

Converting a loft (also known as an attic conversion) is one of the best ways to create valuable extra space in your home. Many semi-detached and terraced houses have underutilised loft space that, with the right loft conversion design, can become a bright new bedroom, home office, or even a playroom. However, one of the first questions homeowners ask is: how much does a loft conversion cost?

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What Is a Loft Conversion?

A loft conversion is the process of transforming unused loft space or an attic area into a functional living space, such as a bedroom, office, or bathroom. It’s a popular home improvement option for homeowners looking to add space, improve property value, or create a more versatile room on the top floor of their house. Depending on your roof structure, available headroom, and design goals, there are several types of loft conversions to choose from, each with its own benefits and costs.

Costs also vary significantly depending on the type of loft conversion—from a simple Velux loft conversion under existing rooflines, to a larger dormer loft conversion, extending out with a flat roof or mansard loft conversion. There are also hip-to-gable and bespoke loft conversions that transform roof structures entirely.

What Affects the Cost of a Loft Conversion?

Before diving into specific prices, it’s important to understand the factors that influence the overall cost of a loft conversion. These can vary widely depending on your home, location, and design preferences.

Size and Layout of Your Loft

The larger your loft space, the more materials and labour will be required. A basic conversion in a small loft will cost significantly less than a spacious, multi-room loft extension.

Type of Loft Conversion

There are different types of loft conversions suited to different homes, each with varying complexity and cost:

• Velux loft conversion (least expensive)
• Dormer loft conversion (most common)
• Hip to gable conversion (for homes with a hipped roof)
• Mansard loft conversion (high-end, structural changes)

Structural Requirements

Altering the existing roof, adding floor joists, or reinforcing the existing ceiling joists can increase costs. Your roof structure and available headroom also play a role in determining whether structural adjustments are needed.

Planning and Building Regulations

Whether you need planning permission or can proceed under permitted development rights will affect timelines and fees. All conversions must comply with building regulations, including fire safety regulations and thermal insulation standards.

Location in the UK

Where you live will affect your loft conversion cost. Labour and material prices vary from region to region. For instance, a loft conversion in London will typically cost more than one in the West Midlands.

Type and Quality of Materials

High-end windows, bespoke joinery, and luxury finishes will increase your total cost. Material choices such as flooring, lighting, and insulation also impact the overall budget.

Average Loft Conversion Cost in the UK

To help you budget more effectively, here’s a general breakdown of average loft conversion costs depending on type and complexity.

Velux Loft Conversion

The most affordable option, a Velux loft conversion, involves adding skylight windows to the existing roof structure. There are minimal structural changes, making it ideal for loft spaces with sufficient head height.

Average cost: £20,000–£30,000

Dormer Loft Conversion

A dormer loft conversion is the most common type in the UK. It adds a box-shaped structure to the existing slope of the roof, providing extra floor space and headroom.

Average cost: £35,000–£50,000

Hip to Gable Loft Conversion

Popular with semi-detached and detached homes, this conversion straightens the sloped side of the roof to create a vertical gable wall, increasing loft space.

Average cost: £45,000–£60,000

Mansard Loft Conversion

This is a premium option that involves significant structural changes. A mansard loft conversion adds a full additional storey with a flat roof and steep rear slope.

Average cost: £55,000–£75,000

Real-Life Loft Conversion Examples

Seeing real-world examples is one of the best ways to visualise the potential of your own loft space. Below are two typical case studies that show what can be achieved with different property types and budgets.

Example 1: Dormer Conversion in a Semi-Detached House

One example features a rear-facing dormer loft conversion in a semi-detached house in Coventry. This project transformed unused loft space into a spacious double bedroom complete with an en-suite bathroom. Featuring a flat roof dormer structure and large Velux windows to maximise natural light, the entire build took around 10 weeks and cost approximately £45,000.

• Location: Coventry, West Midlands
• Type of loft conversion: Rear-facing dormer
• Features: Double bedroom with en-suite, flat roof, natural light Velux window
• Cost: £45,000
• Timeframe: 10 weeks

Example 2: Hip to Gable Conversion with Juliet Balcony

Another case study from Wolverhampton involved a hip-to-gable conversion in a home with a low-pitch existing roof. With limited available headroom, the project included a large rear dormer, a brand new staircase, and the creation of generous living space. Highlights included a Juliet balcony and bespoke wardrobe joinery. The cost of this more complex loft extension came in at around £58,000.

• Location: Wolverhampton
• Existing roof: Low pitch with limited available headroom
• Conversion: Hip to gable with large dormer, new staircase, extra space created
• Cost: £58,000
• Highlights: Juliet balcony, bespoke wardrobe joinery

But note: these are just guides. The final cost and design of your loft conversion will vary depending on your home’s existing structure, your location, the materials you choose, and the loft conversion company or specialist you go with.

Planning Permission and Building Regulations

Understanding legal requirements is a crucial part of planning your loft conversion project. Most loft conversions fall under permitted development, but some exceptions apply.

When You Need Planning Permission

You’ll need to submit a planning application if:

• Your home is in a conservation area
• The roof pitch or roof structure is significantly altered
• Your design includes Juliet balconies or raised platforms

Building Regulations Compliance

Regardless of whether planning permission is required, your conversion must comply with building regulations. This covers:

• Structural integrity (e.g. new floor joists, roof structure)
• Fire safety regulations
• Soundproofing for the party wall
• Proper staircase access

Consulting a structural engineer early on ensures safety and compliance.

Key Design Considerations

When planning your loft conversion design, it’s essential to consider how you want to use the space and what features will improve comfort and usability.

Maximising Natural Light

Add Velux windows or dormer windows to let light flood in. The more light, the larger and more open the room will feel.

Space Optimisation

Clever layouts and bespoke loft conversions often include built-in storage under eaves, wardrobes, and en-suite bathrooms to fully utilise every inch of available space.

Room Functionality

Are you creating an additional room like a guest bedroom, home office, or playroom? This will influence your choice of finishes and loft conversion design.

Choosing the Right Loft Conversion Specialist

Finding a leading loft conversion specialist or reputable loft conversion company is key to ensuring your project runs smoothly from start to finish.

Experience and Portfolio

Look for companies like Simply Loft, known for delivering high-quality, stress-free loft conversions in the West Midlands. Review past projects similar to yours in size and scope.

Project Management

The right loft conversion specialist will handle everything from design and build to project management, building control, and even snagging.

Transparent Pricing

Get detailed quotes and ask what’s included—from materials to labour and windows to plumbing. Watch for exclusions like fixtures or fittings that could inflate your total cost.

Cost Breakdown: Where Does the Money Go?

Understanding how your budget is allocated can help you make smarter decisions.

• Labour and construction: 40–50%
• Design and planning: 10–15%
• Windows and insulation: 10–15%
• Fixtures, fittings, flooring: 10–20%
• Contingency: 5–10%

Financing Your Loft Conversion

Many homeowners choose to fund their home improvement through tailored finance packages.

Finance Options

From personal loans to remortgaging, there are many ways to spread the cost of your loft conversion.

Interest-Free Credit and Flexible Terms

Some companies—like Simply Loft—offer interest-free credit or buy now, pay later plans. Always check if they’re authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and listed on the financial services register.

Important Disclaimers

Credit is subject to status. The provider acts as a credit broker, not the lender. Be sure to read all terms carefully and confirm whether a minimum spend applies.

Loft Conversion Costs

A loft conversion remains one of the most cost-effective ways to add value and living space to your home. With careful planning, smart budgeting, and the right loft conversion specialist, your dream loft can become a reality.

Whether you need extra space for your family, a quiet room to work from home, or simply want to increase your property’s value, a well-executed loft conversion project is a wise investment.

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