Get in touch for a free no-obligation quotation for your project. Contact us
Think of turning your unused attic into a sunlit guest room or home office – sounds nice right? Loft conversions are super popular with homeowners who want more living space and more value in their property. Understanding the costs involved is key to making informed decisions.
The cost of a loft conversion can vary greatly depending on the type of conversion and materials used. Homeowners have to navigate a multitude of costs from labour and materials to permits and design choices all of which will impact the overall budget. So being aware of these costs will help you plan better.
This article breaks down the costs of loft conversions for 2024, average costs, factors that affect pricing, financing options and timelines. Whether you’re looking to install a Velux or a Mansard conversion this guide has got you covered.
A loft conversion is a big but often worthwhile investment, you get extra space and potentially more value in your property. In London in 2023 you can expect to pay between £50,000 and £90,000 on average for a loft conversion, the cost depends on design, location and specifications. Professional fees are optional but useful, architectural services will cost between £1,500 and £5,000. A structural engineer’s input may be required to ensure the structural integrity of the conversion and will cost between £500 and £2,000. Contractor fees are wide ranging from £15,000 to £40,000 or more depending on the size and finish of the project. Electrical work is necessary for a functional and safe loft conversion and will cost between £1,000 and £3,000 depending on the complexity of the installation required.
If you want a more budget friendly way to convert your loft space Velux loft conversions could be the way to go, usually between £15,000 and £25,000. This type of loft conversion keeps the original roofline, with added windows to bring in natural light and ventilation. Location and material quality will affect the cost but a typical Velux loft conversion will cost around £20,000 to £30,000. It’s also a quick process, usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. Cost effective also applies to the price per square metre too, around £1,000 to £1,500 for this type of conversion.
Amongst the different types of loft conversions dormer conversions are popular for providing extra headroom and floor space. The average cost of a dormer loft conversion is between £20,000 and £38,000, this is dependent on the size and complexity of the project. The construction costs alone will be between £12,000 and £24,000 and then add to that the costs of a structural engineer £600 to £1,100 and architectural fees £1,500 to £2,500.
For detached or semi detached homeowners hip to gable loft conversions are a way to get both floor and head space by replacing the sloping side of the roof with a gable end. This is a big modification to the existing roof structure and will cost on average between £60,000 and £70,000. The final cost will depend on the size, internal specifications and complexity of the project. Add a dormer conversion for extra space and the costs will be between £65,000 and £110,000.
Mansard loft conversions are the most expensive of all loft conversion types. The average cost is between £35,000 and £60,000 as you need to reshape the whole roof structure – effectively adding a whole extra floor to your house. This type of conversion takes 8 to 10 weeks to complete, longer than other conversions as it’s more complex. The cost per square metre is between £1,750 and £3,000. Add in a new staircase or bathroom and the Mansard conversion cost will be even higher.
In summary the cost of a loft conversion can vary greatly depending on the type of loft conversion, complexity of the project, finishings and professional fees. Each type of conversion has its own set of benefits and challenges and the cost reflects the scope and scale of the work. Homeowners should consider these factors when planning their loft conversion to get the most out of their extra living space.
A loft conversion can add a lot of value to your home by adding extra space and functionality. But before you start a project you need to understand the costs. The average cost of a loft conversion in the UK is between £40,000 and £80,000. Several factors will affect this range including the type of loft conversion, planning permission required, architectural design, the reputation of the tradespeople involved and the state of the loft space.
In London due to the demand for housing and the value of property the costs of a loft conversion can go up to £50,000 to £90,000 or more. The specifics of the project such as a complex design or premium materials will add to the cost.
The cost of a detached house loft conversion is around £62,500, bungalows are higher £62,500 to £87,500 due to structural complexities. Architectural fees will add to the overall cost and will be between £1,500 and £5,000 or more depending on the project. And then there are the legalities such as building control fees which ensure you comply with building regulations will be around £1,000.
Labour costs make up a big chunk of a loft conversion project and can be between £12,000 and £32,000 or more depending on the size of the loft, complexity of the project and location. This can go up to £14,000 to £35,000 if you add in extra features like bathrooms or bespoke carpentry.
You’ll need a team of skilled tradespeople: builders, electricians, plumbers and decorators. Most of the labour costs will be for the builders. The average hourly rate for these professionals is: builders (£20 - £35), electricians (£50 - £120) and plumbers (£35 - £45).
The overall project time will depend on the type of conversion. Velux conversions can take 4-6 weeks to complete, Mansard conversions 8-10 weeks or more.
Material costs for a loft conversion will vary depending on the type and quality of materials. For example loft conversion insulation can be between £5 and £30 per m². The price will fluctuate depending on the type of insulation. Sheet insulation is £15-£25 per m² and loose-fill insulation is £5-£15 per m².
Flooring materials also have a big price range; vinyl is £7-£20 per m², wood is £10-£70 per m² and tiles are £10-£60 per m². Electrics will be £300-£600 for materials and labour.
Built in storage solutions have a big price range too; £1,500-£10,000 depending on design and materials used. Stairs are a big part of any loft conversion and come in basic and custom. Basic stairs are £1,000-£1,200 and custom stairs are £3,000-£10,000 and will add to the overall cost.
Beyond labour and materials other costs will impact the overall cost of a loft conversion. Party wall agreements are required when you’re making changes to walls that share with your neighbours and can be £1,000-£1,800 per neighbour including surveyor costs. Architectural fees are optional but can be £1,500-£5,000 or more depending on the expertise required.
You’ll need to engage a structural engineer to ensure the project is safe and stable, fees are £500-£2,000 depending on the complexity of the work. Electrical work is essential to make the new space functional and can be £1,000-£3,000 or more depending on the extent of the wiring and fixtures needed.
These costs highlight the importance of budgeting and planning for a successful loft conversion with professional input to get you to a financially viable and structurally sound result.
The cost of a loft conversion is made up of many factors, each contributing to the overall cost. One of these is design, which sets the technical and visual blueprint of the loft conversion. Design fees are £3,000-£6,000 and structural calculations to determine the feasibility and safety of the conversion can add £1,800-£3,600 to the total cost depending on the complexity.
Another cost factor is the Party Wall Agreement. This is required when you’re working on shared walls and can cost on average £100-£250. Professional services, architectural and structural engineering play a big part in loft conversion costs. Architectural fees for designing and project managing a conversion can be £1,500-£5,000 and structural engineering fees can add £500-£2,000 to the bill.
The location of the property has a big impact on loft conversion costs. Urban areas cost more due to higher demand and stricter regulations. London for example has an average loft conversion cost of £50,000-£90,000.
When it comes to loft conversions location affects not only the cost but also the design and structure. For example Mansard loft conversions which are common in urban areas may require planning permission especially in London boroughs or conservation areas. You need to check with local regulations to be compliant and avoid costly delays.
The architecture of your loft will also play a big part. A traditional loft is more convertible than a modern truss type and can reduce the complexity and cost of the conversion. Local planning laws may also dictate what type of loft conversion is allowed so will guide your choices and the overall cost of the project.
The size of the loft conversion is a big factor in the cost, the national average cost of conversion is £20,000-£75,000. To give you an idea a conversion for a standard loft size of 5 x 4 meters will be £20,000-£35,000, a small conversion.
A 5 x 6 meter loft will be £35,000-£55,000 and an 8 x 12 meter loft will be £45,000-£75,000. The combination of the type of conversion and loft size will reflect in the total cost.
Your material choices and design preferences will impact the overall cost. For the raw materials alone the cost can be £12,000-£40,000. But these costs can increase with custom features like bespoke cabinetry, deluxe finishes or skylights.
Types of loft conversions each with their own design and structural complexity will contribute differently to the overall cost. For example a dormer conversion will have additional installation costs compared to a Velux conversion. Personalising the project with specific fixtures and fittings will give you a bespoke design and control over the budget by avoiding contractor markups. Certain customisations like specific installation types or an en-suite will impact the total cost of the loft conversion.
In summary, knowing these factors will help you plan and budget for your loft conversion to match your expectations and budget.
For most homeowners converting a loft space is within permitted development rights so no planning permission is required as long as the conversion meets the size and appearance conditions. However for homes in conservation areas or listed buildings planning permission is required from the local authority before you start the loft conversion. If the loft conversion doesn’t meet permitted development rules an application (usually £200-£400) needs to be submitted to get the necessary approvals. Successful planning applications will give you a 3 year window to start the project. The application fee is usually £462 but can vary depending on the project. You need to budget for these costs when planning for a loft conversion to avoid delays in the project.
Financing a loft conversion can be a big investment for homeowners. But there are several financing options available that can make this home improvement more achievable without requiring a big upfront cost. Third party companies offer various financing schemes that can spread the cost over time and reduce the initial outlay.
For homeowners who have built up equity in their property a home improvement loan or a Further Advance could be an option. This type of financing involves borrowing more money that is secured against your property’s equity – the value of your house that you own outright. To be eligible for this option you will need to have a significant amount of equity in your property as the loan is secured against it.
Borrowing against your property can provide the funds but you need to consider that the monthly payments and interest rates will be higher than a traditional mortgage lender. You need to weigh up whether the loft conversion will add more value to your property against the financial commitment of the loan repayments.
In areas where property values have risen, releasing some of the equity in your home to fund a loft conversion might be the most cost effective way to get extra space. Such decisions should be made after speaking to a lender or financial advisor who is familiar with the property market who can advise on the best financing options for a loft conversion for your individual circumstances and market conditions.
A loft conversion is exciting and you’ll be creating more space and adding value to your property. But it’s important to have a clear understanding of the timings involved. The duration of a loft conversion varies depending on the type:
Remember these are average times. Scheduling of trades, weather, labour and supply issues can extend these times. Always allow some buffer time for unexpected delays when planning your loft conversion.
The loft conversion process can be broken down into several stages, with full completion taking 6-10 weeks depending on the size of the project and other factors. These stages are:
Success of the project depends on detailed planning and execution. Each stage requires attention to detail and compliance with building regulations to ensure safety and quality of the finished conversion. Open communication with your loft conversion specialist will be key throughout the process to monitor progress and address any issues that may arise during this home improvement journey.
Saving on the costs of a loft conversion can be done by planning and thinking ahead. Taking the time to map out every aspect of the conversion before you start will help you avoid costly changes once you start building.
Having a tight budget and sticking to it will help prevent overspending throughout the project. Also plan for the unexpected by having a 10% contingency fund. A simpler type of loft conversion, such as a rooflight or Velux conversion can also save you costs. These conversions are less complex, require less structural changes and therefore less labour and materials which will make the project more cost effective.
To get the most from your conversion and keep costs down try:
By following these cost control measures you’ll be better off getting the extra living space you want without the financial strain.
A loft conversion is not just about getting an extra bedroom or creating new living spaces; it’s a financial strategy that can add significant value to your home. By converting loft space, homeowners can expect an increase in their property value of 20% to 25%. This is a big boost in value which can make a huge difference when selling, with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) suggesting an increase of around £44,000 on a property worth £175,000. As a measure of their cost effectiveness, the cost of a loft conversion is only a third of the cost of moving to a bigger property, making it a more cost effective way of getting that extra space.
When it comes to the cost of loft conversions in London for example, homeowners might budget between £50,000 to £90,000 where the final cost will depend on size, type of conversion and specifications. Given these costs, a loft conversion is a calculable investment that adds square footage to your home – functionality without the cost of moving.
The impact of a loft conversion on property value is positive, up to 20%. This increase is a good reason for homeowners to invest, especially those who are planning to sell in the future. In urban areas like London where space is at a premium, a loft conversion can increase property value by 20% to 25%. But it’s important to note that factors like the location of the property, the nature of the construction work and current local market trends can affect the actual increase in value.
Where property prices are high and space is limited, a well designed and built loft extension can be a key driver for increased property value. For buyers, the knowledge that all renovation work including loft conversions meets the building regulations is crucial. Non compliance can result in not just devaluation of the property but also negotiations that can result in a lower selling price.
When it comes to the return on investment (ROI) a loft conversion can be a very smart financial move. Often the initial investment is not only recoverable but can sometimes exceed the original cost, making it viable – especially if the conversion is good quality and market conditions are right. In the context of the London property market, the 20% increase in value can justify the investment in a loft conversion.
Plus homeowners can avoid the financial costs of moving house such as stamp duty, legal fees and removal costs so the net return on the loft conversion is even higher. Another factor in the ROI calculation is energy efficiency – refurbishing a loft can reduce heating and cooling bills and save you money in the long run. The extra space from a loft conversion can eliminate the need for external storage or rented spaces so the value of the investment is optimised.
Before you start a loft conversion project you need to be prepared for what’s ahead. Here’s a checklist to guide you through the planning phase:
Remember planning is key to managing costs and success of the loft conversion.
In summary
When it comes to a loft conversion you need to know the costs to budget and make informed decisions. Dormer loft conversions are a popular choice and involve adding a vertical extension to the roof to gain more headroom and space. But dormer loft conversions can be expensive and there are many factors that can affect the cost. For a rough breakdown of costs you can expect to pay for structural changes, roofing materials and interior finishes. The cost of a loft conversion will depend on the design and materials used.
Gable conversions are another type of loft conversion where you extend the roofline to gain more space. This can be more expensive than a basic loft conversion as you need to modify the gable end. A flat roof dormer which extends the roofline horizontally can be a more cost effective option than a complex gable conversion or hip roof modification.
Modular loft conversions offer a streamlined approach and can reduce costs by using prefabricated components. These pre-made solutions can simplify the build process and give you an accurate loft conversion cost as they are standardised. But the cost of materials and labour for modular solutions can still vary depending on the design and site conditions.
For an accurate loft conversion cost you need to include all the costs – roofing materials, loft insulation and any structural changes. The cost breakdown should include party wall notices if the conversion affects shared walls with neighbouring properties. Unexpected costs can arise during the project so get quotes and budget for any extras.
Average costs will vary depending on the type of loft conversion and the property. A terraced house loft conversion will cost differently to a bungalow loft conversion due to the different roof structures and space available. A dormer loft conversion will cost more than a basic attic conversion which will require less structural changes.
Common mistakes when estimating loft conversion costs are underestimating the cost of high end materials and forgetting to include planning permission and building regulations. Having a breakdown and budgeting for contingencies will help you manage the financial side of the project.
In summary the cost of a loft conversion is dependent on the type of conversion, the design and the materials used.
A loft conversion is a great way to create additional living space in your home, whether it's turning unused attic space into a master bedroom or a double bedroom. However, careful planning is essential to manage additional costs and ensure the project is successful. The cost of loft conversion can vary depending on factors such as the types of conversion and the types of houses. A simple rooflight conversion is the cheapest option, while more complex projects, such as those involving a hipped roof or major structural modifications, will increase the loft conversion price. It's important to get accurate quotes from a loft conversion expert, and an application for planning permission may be required depending on the project. Popular loft conversion ideas include creating a master bedroom or additional garden space. For more information, consult a guide to loft conversion and explore the range of sort of loft conversions available to maximize your home's quality of life.
Choosing the right builder is key to a successful loft conversion. At Danesfort we deliver quality on time and on budget. We have extensive experience working on loft conversions in the London area.
Danesfort ensures all projects comply with planning permissions and building regulations. We offer clear contracts that outline scope, timelines and payment terms so you’re fully informed from start to finish.
What we offer
Get in touch today to book your free consultation.
.svg)