Loft conversion costs range from $9,000 to $34,500, with an average of $20,000 depending on size and function. Converting a loft can add value and more usable space to your home.
The cost of a loft conversion typically ranges from £20,000 to £50,000+, but several factors influence the final price. These include the location of your property, the size of the space, the type of conversion you choose, the quality of finishes, and the overall complexity of the project.
Yes, a loft conversion can increase your property's value by up to 20%, add functional living space, and improve energy efficiency, making it a smart long-term investment.
Highest cost: A mansard loft conversion, or converting a modern engineered truss roof, can effectively mean replacing the whole of the existing roof structure with an additional attic storey and is the most expensive.
A very simple loft conversion could cost £10,000 to £15,000. This assumes you want a new staircase, new windows, proper flooring and insulated walls / ceilings. If you would like new dormer windows instead of Velux-style windows, this type of conversion could cost in the region of £20,000 to £30,000.
Moreover, houses built during or after the 1960s may have trussed roofs, which are characterised by their 'W' shaped frames that support both the roof and the floor. These trusses are not designed with loft conversion in mind, as altering them is a complex process that requires replacement with sturdier supports.
A roof light conversion is by far the cheapest way to convert your attic, it is a cost-effective option that involves adding windows to the roof of your property. This type of conversion is ideal if you want to create a brighter, more spacious living area without undertaking major construction work.
A loft conversion for your house is considered to be permitted development, not requiring an application for planning permission, provided certain limits and conditions are met.
Finance options for loft conversions include personal loans, remortgaging, home equity release, using credit cards for payments, and exploring available grants. Each method offers distinct advantages depending on your financial situation and the scale of your project.
The timeline to complete loft conversions depends on multiple variables, including project size, type of conversions, and challenges faced during conversions. However, on average, a project can be completed in 6–12 weeks. The entire process of loft conversion is divided into different stages.
Apartments also come with walled-off bedrooms, while lofts are typically large open spaces that function as extra-large “studio” style apartments. The open-concept style of lofts makes them more of a “blank canvas” to design, but because lofts are so unique and in demand, they also come with a higher price tag.
The most popular type of loft conversion is a simple flat roof dormer. This is a structural extension which projects vertically from the slope of the existing roof, creating a box shape. This loft extension generally requires no dramatic changes, and allows for the installation of conventional windows.
Loft conversion drawing costs range between £1,500 and £3,000. This includes initial consultations, the development of the concept, and the final detailed plans necessary for construction and any required approvals. The final cost can vary depending on the project's complexity, location, and the architect's experience.
Can you convert your loft yourself? Yes, but it depends on the project's complexity and your skills. Simple loft conversions like storage can be DIY, but more extensive work requiring structural changes or utilities usually needs professional help.
Your neighbours may reject your loft conversion plans due to noise, light, or privacy concerns, which will be taken into consideration by the council. If your planning permission is rejected, you can either appeal or amend your plans, keeping in mind the reasons for rejection.
A basic loft conversion cost in the UK typically starts from around £20,000 to £30,000. However, more complex conversions or those with higher-end finishes can cost upwards of £40,000 to £50,000 or more. These costs are estimates. Get a local installer to QUOTE now!
No, it is not strictly necessary. However, leveraging an architect's expertise brings numerous benefits beyond simple construction. Architects can offer creative solutions to maximise space, ensure that the design meets all regulatory requirements, and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your conversion.
The answer is quite a lot. As a guide, a well built and perfectly appointed loft conversion can add between 10–20% to the value of your home (Nationwide). They can add even more in areas where space is at a premium — for example, a loft conversion will add more value in London and other city centre properties.
Head height
Depending on the type of building you live in (and most likely, the date it was built), the minimum headroom required by law may differ. As a general rule, 2.2m from floor to ceiling at its highest point is the threshold for undertaking a loft conversion.
Loft conversion
If it's under a certain size it will probably come under permitted development which means it won't require planning permission. It also won't eat into valuable space like an outside extension. In general a loft conversion is much cheaper and more straightforward than building a brand new extension.
Look for alternatives in the design
Having one big bedroom instead of a smaller one with an en suite bathroom would save you money, too, as well as freeing up more space for storage. “But do remember that you can only downgrade the elements of a loft conversion so far before impacting Building Regulations,” he says.
Most good carpenters can build a loft conversion
This is due to the complexities of the building process e.g. combining steel, timber and roofing disciplines. Knowledge of building regulations is vital.
Most of us a have a credit card available or you could consider taking out a personal loan and work to pay it off. Alternatively, if you're paying a mortgage on the home you are looking to improve you might choose to remortgage and free up some cash that way for your loft conversion project..