Loft conversion is one of the smartest ways to add value to your home. If you are looking to convert your loft but are unsure about the cost, then you are not alone.
In this blog, we will cover everything, including how much a loft conversion costs, budgeting tips, what influences its price, and financing options available. So, let’s get started.
Loft Conversion Cost Breakdown in UK
On average, loft conversions in the UK start at £20,000 for cheaper ones, and more luxurious ones cost around £60,000+.
Their prices vary widely based on the type and size of the project. Here’s what you can expect to pay:
| Loft Conversion Type | Cost |
| Basic Velux conversion | £15,000-£30,000 |
| Dormer conversion | £40,000 to £60,000 |
| Hip-to-gable conversion | £50,000 to £70,000 |
| Mansard conversion | £50,000 to £80,000 |
These costs are the average figures. Actual costs vary according to the location, materials used, property type and other specific requirements.
If you are looking for a loft conversion, you can get an absolutely free estimate now
Detailed Cost Analysis by Conversion Type
Velux/Skylight Conversions
Velux loft conversions are among the most affordable options, ideal for transforming attic spaces into functional living areas. Their costs vary based on the size of the loft and the number of windows installed.
- Small Velux Conversion (20m²–30m²): £15,000–£20,000. Includes two Velux windows, floor reinforcement, insulation, plaster boarding, and staircase installation.
- Medium Velux Conversion (30m²–40m²): £20,000–£30,000. Features 3–4 Velux windows and additional labour and materials.
- Large Velux Conversion (40m²–50m²+): £30,000–£45,000+. Includes 4–6 Velux windows with more extensive labour and materials.
Individual Velux window installation costs range from £655 to £3470 depending on size and features such as solar-powered blinds or rain sensors.
Dormer Conversions
Dormer conversions add vertical space and headroom by extending the roof. They are more expensive than Velux conversions but offer greater versatility.
- Typical costs range from £40,000 to £60,000, depending on the size and complexity of the dormer structure. This includes materials, labour, and finishing touches like insulation and plastering.
The price includes
| Items | Estimated Cost (£) |
| Structural work | £10,000 – £15,000 |
| Dormer window installation | £3,000-£5,000 |
| Insulation and waterproofing | £3,000-£5,000 |
| Staircase | £2,000-£3,50 |
| Electrics and plumbing | £3,000-£5,000 |
| Plastering and finishing | £3,000-£5,000 |
Hip-to-Gable Conversions
Hip-to-gable conversions are ideal for properties with sloping roofs. They involve extending the roofline to create additional usable space.
- Costs range from £50,000 to £70,000 depending on the property size and design. This type of conversion usually requires structural changes to the roof.
The price includes
| Items | Estimated Cost (£) |
| Structural alterations | £15,000-£20,000 |
| Windows | £2,000-£4,000 |
| Roof alterations | £5,000-£8,000 |
| Staircase | £2,000-£3,500 |
| Insulation | £3,000-£5,000 |
| Interior finishing | £5,000-£8,000 |
Mansard Conversions
Mansard conversions help to maximise the space by altering the roof slope, and they are very versatile.
- The average costs of Mansard conversions range between £50,000 and £80,000. Their prices vary based on roof dimensions and additional features like dormer windows or balconies.
The price includes
| Items | Estimated Cost (£) |
| Major structural work | £20,000-£30,000 |
| Roof replacement | £8,000-£12,000 |
| Windows | £3,000-£5,000 |
| Insulation and waterproofing | £4,000-£6,000 |
| Staircase | £2,500-£4,000 |
| Electrics and plumbing | £4,000-£6,000 |
| Interior finishing | £6,000-£10,000 |
Modular & Custom Conversions
Modular loft conversions involve prefabricated structures that are assembled on-site. Custom conversions offer tailored designs based on specific needs:
- Modular Conversions: Typically cost between £40,000 and £70,000, depending on customisation levels.
- Custom Conversions: Prices for custom conversions begin at £75,000 and might rise based on specialised materials or when complex architectural elements are required.
These options provide flexibility but often involve higher upfront costs due to bespoke designs.
What affects the cost of a loft conversion?
1. Your home’s age and structure:
If our house is old, then you need more work before it is ready for loft conversion. It may need additional reinforcement to handle the extra weight of the new loft.
The cost is also influenced by your house structure. For example, you may have unsual roof shapes, which makes the construction more costly and challenging.
2. Your Roof Type:
The cost of loft conversion also largely depends upon the structure of your roof. If you have trussed roofs, it requires structural modifications and will be expensive. The traditional Rafter roofs are easier to convert and are less costly.
3. Customisation and Design Choices:
Your budget will also be influenced by the level of customisation you need. For example, if you add an en-suite bathroom, it can cost anywhere from £5,000 to £10,000. If saving money is your goal, then go with only essential features, and you can give the luxury touch later.
4. Permissions and Legal Requirements
The requirement of planning permission will influence your overall loft conversion cost. If your conversion falls under permitted development, you do not need special approval. If your property is in a conversion area, a world heritage site, or a national park, then you will need planning permission.
Here is a detailed blog on whether you need planning permission for loft conversion.
5. Where You Live Affects the Price
The area of your residence also affects the price of a loft conversion. If you live in London or the South East, the cost will be 15-20% more than the national average. The rural areas might have lower labour costs, but the material delivery fees can be higher.
Budgeting and Cost-Saving Strategies for Loft conversion
If you are looking to convert your loft and are worried about the price, here are some cost-saving strategies:
- You can do some of the simpler tasks yourself, such as painting and decorating.
- You can also source your own fixtures and fittings
- Project managing smaller aspects
- Clearing the loft space before work begins
Also, be sure to check for any hidden costs, such as VAT and party wall agreements. When you hire a contractor, ask for at least three different quotes to compare the prices.
Financing Your Loft Conversion
- One of the most popular options is to refinance your mortgage to access the funds for conversion. This can be easily done if your home has increased in value.
- Banks also offer loans specifically for renovations. These are called home improvement loans. The interest rate is between 3-7%.
- You can take personal loans for smaller loft conversions. However, the interest rate on personal loans is higher than home improvement loans.
- You can also use credit cards for smaller expenses like fittings and decor. But you will be charged with high interest if you do not pay off the debt in time.
- You can also qualify for government grants and incentives. These include the following:
- Energy Efficiency Grants for insulation and eco-friendly upgrades.
- VAT reductions for specific types of conversions.
- Disability Facilities Grant if modifications are needed for accessibility.
If you are looking for high-quality loft conversions across east London, then YDV Construction is here. We have been serving all areas in east London for years now.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the hidden costs involved in loft conversion?
While converting your loft, you need to be sure regarding the following hidden costs:
- Additional structural work discovered during construction
- Udemand
- Moving water tanks or existing service electrical systems to handle increased ces
- Temporary accommodation during disruptive phases
- Storage for furniture and belongings
- Redecorating connecting areas affected by the work
How long does a typical loft conversion take?
A typical loft conversion takes around 4–8 weeks to complete. The various factors that affect the time include type of conversion, weather conditions, availability of the materials, and planning permission requirements.
How much value does a loft conversion add to my home?
Loft conversion increases the value of your property by 15-20%. The actual value added depends on the quality of the conversion, additional floor space created, and many other factors.
