Loft Conversion Cost
A loft conversion is one of the best ways to maximise useable space in your home while also increasing its resale value. From an additional bedroom to a home office or playroom for the kids, the possibilities for an attic room are endless. The converted space can also improve your home's energy efficiency and allow for better use of natural light and ventilation.
- The average cost of a loft conversion is £40,000.
- The cheapest attic conversion is usually a Velux, at around £20,000.
- Mansard loft conversions are the most expensive, averaging £55,000.
- Labour makes up around half of the total cost of a the project.
- Average property value increases by 10 to 20% after a loft conversion.
- It will take about 6 to 8 weeks to complete.
Planning a loft conversion project is a big undertaking, but our guide takes you through key steps, and costs, of the job. We outline the different types of loft conversion and which one might be right for your home, how much each type can cost, and the main things to keep in mind when hiring contractors or starting the work yourself.

£40,000
Table of Contents
- How Much is a Loft or Attic Conversion?
- Loft Conversion Costs
- Loft Conversion Cost per m²
- Loft Conversion Costs by Type
- Loft Conversion Labour Costs and Timescales
- Factors That Impact Loft Conversion Costs
- Loft Conversion vs Extension and Other Options
- What's Involved in a Loft Conversion?
- Can I Build a Loft Conversion Myself?
- Do You Need Planning Permission for a Loft Conversion?
- Building Regulations For Loft Conversions
- Party Wall Agreements for Loft Conversions
- Does a Loft Conversion Need a Staircase?
- Do I Need an Architect for a Loft Conversion?
- How to Keep Down Costs of a Loft Conversion
- Possible Issues You May Come Across When Converting a Loft
- Checklist: Hiring a Loft Conversion Specialist
- FAQs
How Much is a Loft or Attic Conversion?
In 2026, average loft conversion costs in the UK are around £40,000.
Want a pricing breakdown per loft conversion project?
Here's a quick conversion cost breakdown for a 50m² project:
- Velux conversion — £20,000
- Dormer conversion — £45,000
- Hip-to-Gable conversion — £55,000
- Mansard conversion — £55,000
Why's a Velux loft conversion so much cheaper than the others?
Velux conversions have minimal structural changes, off-the-shelf products, and a shorter build time. If you're building something bespoke (e.g., a gable loft conversion), your prices will be higher because you're modifying the roof structure.
Loft Conversion Costs
This table shows typical costs for each type of loft conversion based on the overall project.
To put it into context, here's what 30m² and 50m² can get you:
- A 30m² loft conversion — A large bedroom, a small bedroom and en-suite, or a large home-office, depending on your configuration.
- A 50m² loft conversion — Two well-sized bedrooms, a large bedroom and en-suite, or a full new floor in a bungalow conversion.
| Type of Conversion | Average Cost (30m²) | Average Cost (50m²) |
|---|---|---|
| Velux Loft Conversion | £15,000 - £20,000 | £20,000 - £30,000 |
| Dormer Loft Conversion | £35,000 - £50,000 | £45,000 - £60,000 |
| Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion | £45,000 - £60,000 | £55,000 - £70,000 |
| Mansard Loft Conversion | £45,000 - £60,000 | £55,000 - £70,000 |
| L-Shaped Dormer Loft Conversion | £50,000 - £60,000 | £55,000 - £70,000 |
| Shell Loft Conversion | £20,000 - £40,000 | £30,000 - £55,000 |
Top tip: There are many ways to balance design choices with budget.
Setting a clear plan early and comparing quotes from local loft conversion specialists will help you understand how your cost per m² changes depending on layout, materials, and finish level.
Loft Conversion Cost Calculator
Loft Conversion Cost per m²
Most loft conversions in the UK cost between £1,200 and £1,800 per m², depending on the type of conversion, your region, and the level of finish.
| Size (m²) | Average Cost Per m² |
|---|---|
| 20m² | £1,500 - £2,500 |
| 30m² | £1,300 - £2,200 |
| 40m² | £1,200 - £2,000 |
Why is the cost per m² lower for larger loft conversions?
Larger conversions often have a slightly lower cost per square metre because of fixed costs. These are typically the same no matter the size of your project, so when they're spread over a larger area, the overall cost per square metre lessens.
Fixed loft conversion costs include:
- Scaffolding
- Structural access
- Design and architect fees
- Project management costs
How Much Is a Basic or Small Loft Conversion?
When people search for a basic loft conversion, cheap loft conversion or small loft conversion cost, they're usually looking for a space with a simple layout and standard finishes.
As a rough guide:
- A small basic Velux loft conversion of around 15 to 20 m² that keeps to the existing roofline and uses standard finishes typically costs from £20,000 to £30,000.
- A small dormer or shell loft conversion of around 20 to 25 m² usually starts from £25,000 to £35,000 for the main structure, with the upper end covering a simple full fit out.
These smaller projects sit at the lower end of the overall loft conversion price range because they use a reduced footprint, straightforward designs and standard fixtures.
Choosing rooflights instead of complex dormers, keeping the layout simple and taking on some decorating or finishing work yourself are among the most effective ways to keep a small loft conversion basic and on budget.
Loft Conversion Costs by Region of the UK
Where you live has a major impact on building costs. For a loft conversion in London and the surrounding areas, expect to pay between 15% to 25% more for the same job when compared to the north of the UK.
Loft Conversion Cost Breakdown
There are a lot of jobs involved in a loft conversion - let's make them easier to visualise:
Loft Conversion Costs by Type
Let's take a closer look at the different types of loft conversions in the UK to help you choose the best fit for your property.
Velux Loft Conversion Cost
A Velux conversion (or rooflight conversion) is the simplest and most cost-effective option. The work is carried out within the existing roofline, with no external alterations other than adding rooflight windows, such as those from Velux. The floor is reinforced, and the space is insulated and finished to create a habitable room.
The average cost of a velux loft conversion is £15,000 to £30,000. They are best for lofts with high existing headroom.
- Speed — Fastest and most affordable conversion
- Ease — Minimal structural work required
- Planning permission — Permitted development friendly (planning rarely needed)
- Light — Maximises natural light, creating a bright space and potentially reducing energy bills
Dormer Loft Conversion Cost
Dormer conversions are the most popular type in the UK as they offer an excellent balance of space and cost. This involves building a box-shaped structure that projects vertically from the pitched roof, creating a flat ceiling and straight walls that significantly increase usable floor space and headroom.
The average cost of a dormer loft conversion that's 30m² is £45,000, with ranges between £35,000 and £60,000.
- Versatile — Adds versatile space (e.g., for bathrooms)
- More space — Maximises usable floor space with full headroom
- ROI — Offers the best return on investment
- Flexible — Single, double, or L-shaped dormers are all options, ideal for various kinds of homes
Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion Cost
Hip-to-gable loft conversions (gable-end or gable-wall conversions) significantly alter the shape of the roof. The sloping "hip-end" is replaced with a vertical gable wall, which creates a lot of extra space - but it only works in a semi-detached or detached property with a sloping roof.
The average cost of a hip-to-gable loft conversion that's 20m² is between £45,000 to £70,000.
- Property type — For semi-detached and detached homes to create large, open-plan spaces
- Creates a large space — Transforms a cramped hip roof into a large, open room
- High potential — Can be combined with a rear dormer for even more space
- Stylish — The symmertrical roofline created by this type of loft improves the property's appearance
Mansard Loft Conversion Cost
Mansard loft conversions involve changing the whole shape of the roof, which is essentially modified to be almost completely flat. The walls will also be almost vertical (70-degree angle) and, in most cases, dormer windows can be added.
The average cost of a Mansard loft conversion that's 20m² is between £45,000 to £75,000.
- Highly valuable — Adds the maximum possible space to your home
- Adds the most space — This style can create a full new storey, adding real extra living space to your home
- Energy efficient — Optimal position to install solar panels
- Natural light — This style pairs well with French doors rather than roof windows to maximise natural light and airflow in the space
Shell Loft Conversion Cost
If you want to manage the budget and finish the project yourself, a 'shell' conversion is a great option. A contractor completes all major structural work, leaving you with a watertight shell. This allows you to hire your own tradespeople to complete the insulation, plastering, and decorating.
A simple Velux shell conversion with two Velux windows is estimated to cost between £10,000 and £12,000.
- Budget friendly — Saves significant money on labour costs
- Highly flexible — Full control over the internal finish and budget
- DIY — Ideal for skilled DIYers, saving on labour, and spreading the total cost over time
- Slower pace — You can finish the job in your own time and avoid having months of disruption at once
Modular Loft Conversion Cost
A modular loft conversion involves building the main structure in a factory off-site. The pre-fabricated module is then transported to your home and craned into place, significantly reducing on-site construction time and disruption. This method offers speed and predictable quality control.
The average cost of a modular loft conversion is £40,000 to £80,000.
- Quick — Minimal on-site disruption (often 1 to 2 weeks)
- Less chance of problems — Predictable build quality from factory setting
- Cost-effective — Can be cheaper, as there is less need to hire various labourers and purchase different materials
- Flexible — Manufacturers offer different configurations to suit your property and your goals
Loft Conversion Labour Costs and Timescales
A loft conversion involves a mix of skilled trades, from builders and roofers to electricians, plasterers, and decorators.
You can expect two to three tradespeople on site for most of the build, coordinated by a main contractor or project manager.
Timescales vary depending on access, weather conditions, and how efficiently each trade can be scheduled. As a guide, labour costs (including management) typically account for around 50% to 60% of your total budget.
Average Labour Cost & Duration by Conversion Type
| Type of Conversion | Average Labour Cost |
|---|---|
| Velux Loft Conversion | £9,000 - £14,000 |
| Dormer Loft Conversion | £20,000 - £40,000 |
| Hip-to-Gable Loft Conversion | £20,000 - £35,000 |
| Mansard Loft Conversion | £25,000 - £45,000 |
Let's look at the average build time from start to finish:
- Velux loft conversion - 4 to 6 weeks
- Dormer loft conversion - 6 to 8 weeks
- Hip-to-Gable loft conversion - 6 to 8 weeks
- Mansard loft conversion - 8 to 10 weeks
Factors That Impact Loft Conversion Costs
The total cost of a loft conversion depends on more than just the type of conversion.
Purpose of the Room
How you plan to use the new space is one of the biggest drivers of the internal fit-out cost. A simple, single-use room will always be cheaper than a multi-functional or specialist space:
- Office or Playroom — Baseline cost
- Bedroom — Add £2,000 to £5,000
- Adding an En-suite Bathroom — Add £5,000 to £12,000
- Gym — Add £1,500 to £3,000 (structure only)
- Self-Contained Flat —Add £15,000 to £25,000
Size and Structural Choices
A larger conversion requires more materials and labour, increasing the overall cost. A small single room will be significantly cheaper than a large conversion spanning the full width of your house.
If you decide to split your new loft space into multiple rooms (e.g. a bedroom and a separate office), you will need to add internal stud walls. It will cost around £850 to build and plaster a new stud wall.
Windows and Roof Finish
Velux-style rooflights are the most budget-friendly option, costing around £800 to £1,100 per window supplied and fitted. Dormer windows are more expensive because they require a structure. You can expect to pay £4,000 to £6,000 per dormer window.
When building a dormer or changing the roofline, the new tiles need to match your existing roof. If you have premium tiles, such as slate or handmade clay, the cost will be higher than for standard concrete tiles.
Electrics and Plumbing
Electricians charge £50 to £120 per hour, but the total price depends on the complexity. A simple room with one light and two sockets will be far cheaper than a bedroom with multiple downlights, wall lights, a TV point, and numerous sockets.
Outside of a bathroom, you may need to move existing plumbing for a water tank or add new radiators. The more complex this work is, the higher the final plumbing bill will be.
Loft Staircase
A permanent staircase is an essential part of a legal conversion, making it a key part of your budget.
- Standard "Off-the-Shelf" Staircase — A simple, straight-flight or 'winder' staircase (to save space) typically costs £1,500 to £2,500, including installation.
- Bespoke or Custom Staircase — If you require a custom-made staircase (e.g., with special materials, glass balustrades, or a complex design to fit an awkward space), the cost can rise to £5,000 to £10,000+.
Loft Conversion vs Extension and Other Options
Still deciding whether a loft conversion is the right way to add extra space?
Let's compare typical costs per m² with other options:
| Project Type | Typical Cost per m² | Rough Total Cost Example |
|---|---|---|
| Loft conversion (30m²) | £1,200 - £2,500 | £30,000 - £60,000 |
| Single-storey house extension (30m²) | £1,800 - £3,000 | £50,000 - £90,000 |
| Double-storey house extension (40m²) | £1,500 - £2,200 | £60,000 - £90,000 |
| Basement or cellar conversion (30m²) | £1,500 - £3,000+ | £45,000 - £90,000+ |
| Garage conversion (20m²) | £600 - £1,300 | £12,000 - £26,000 |
What's Involved in a Loft Conversion?
A loft conversion is a sizeable project, but an experienced specialist will follow a clear sequence of steps from preparation through to final sign-off.
Because it requires structural work, strict regulations and multiple trades, most homeowners choose to hire an experienced specialist.
With MyJobQuote, you can get multiple quotes from loft conversion specialists near you, which are fast, free, and with no obligation to go ahead.
Below is a typical process for a standard loft conversion, assuming good access and no major surprises on site.
Before the Job Starts
- Site Visit — Your loft conversion company should visit your home, check the existing roof structure and agree on detailed plans for the new room layout, staircase position and any bathrooms.
- Logistics Arranged — They will arrange any necessary scaffolding, deliveries and Building Control notifications so that inspections can take place at the right stages.
During the Job
- Structural Work Begins — The build usually starts with erecting scaffolding and opening up sections of the roof so new structural supports, steel beams and floor joists can be installed.
- Roof Weatherproofed — Once the structure is secure, the team will construct any dormers or roof alterations, fit new roof coverings where needed and make the space watertight.
- Insulation Fitted — Roof insulation is fitted, internal stud walls are built, and first-fix electrics and plumbing are run for sockets, lighting, radiators and any en-suite bathroom.
- Staircase Installed — The new staircase is then installed, followed by plasterboarding, plastering and fitting windows and flooring to turn the shell into a usable room.
After the Job
- Finishing Work Completed — The contractor completes second-fix electrics and plumbing, hangs doors, installs skirting and architraves and carries out any agreed decorating.
- Final Inspection Completed — Building Control will carry out a final inspection and, if all standards are met, issue a completion certificate to confirm your new loft room complies with regulations.
- Site Cleared — The conversion company should remove all scaffolding and waste materials from the site, leaving the new space ready for you to furnish and move into.
How much is soundproofing likely to add to the cost of a loft conversion? How much is decent soundproofing per metre?
Can I Build a Loft Conversion Myself?
A loft conversion involves major structural changes to your roof and floor, must meet strict Building Regulations, and may require planning permission.
Because of this, the main construction work should always be handled by qualified professionals rather than attempted as a DIY project.
However, there are some parts of the job that any confident DIYer could do:
| Job | Average Saving |
|---|---|
| Clearing loft space | £45 - £50 per m² of loft space |
| Putting insulation between the rafters/beneath the new floor | £400 - £700 |
| Laying flooring | £10 - £12 per m² of flooring |
| Building internal walls | £200 - £225 per m² of wall |
| Boarding/plastering | £90 - £110 per m² of wall |
| Decorating | £40 - £50 per m² of loft space |
Do You Need Planning Permission for a Loft Conversion?
In most cases, loft conversion planning permission isn’t needed because it is covered by permitted development, as long as all of the following provisions apply.
- Space Limits - The additional roof space created does not exceed 40m³ for a terraced home and 50m³ for a semi-detached or detached home.
- No Major Height/Frontage Changes - The conversion does not extend beyond the existing roof slope at the front of the house, and does not increase the overall roof height.
- Location Restrictions - Your home is not a listed building, flat, or maisonette, and not in a conservation area, World Heritage Site, or National Park.
- Design Requirements - Similar materials are used in the existing building. No verandas, balconies, or raised platforms are added, and any side-facing windows are obscure-glazed and non-opening below 1.7m from the floor.
How long after getting planning permission can we leave it until we start our loft conversion?
Building Regulations For Loft Conversions
All loft conversions must legally comply with Building Regulations.
These are national standards designed to ensure your new living space is safe, structurally sound, energy-efficient, and accessible. Without a final Building Regulations completion certificate, your conversion may be classed as non-compliant, and you may face problems when you try to sell your property.
An inspector from your local authority will visit at key stages of the build to check several critical areas. These include:
- Structural Integrity — Ensuring the existing floor joists have been strengthened to support the weight of a habitable room and that any new steel beams are correctly installed and supported.
- Fire Safety — This is paramount. It includes ensuring there is a safe means of escape (which is why a fixed staircase is mandatory), installing mains-powered, interlinked smoke alarms with battery backup, and fitting fire doors where required.
- Staircase Design — The new staircase must be safe, with sufficient headroom (typically around 2m), a maximum pitch (steepness), and compliant handrails.
- Insulation — The conversion must meet current standards for thermal efficiency to prevent heat loss, which can improve your home's EPC rating.
- Ventilation — The new room(s) must have adequate ventilation (e.g., trickle vents in windows) to prevent condensation and ensure good air quality.
Important: The most critical document you will receive is the final completion certificate. This is your official proof that all work was inspected and complies with the law. You should not make the final payment to your contractor until you receive this certificate.
Party Wall Agreements for Loft Conversions
If your loft conversion affects the party wall (the shared wall) with your neighbour, then you may need to serve notice under the rules set out in the Party Wall Act 1996.
This is a common requirement for semi-detached and terraced homes. You can find the full government guidance on the GOV.UK website.
- Speak To Your Neighbour - Before sending any official notices, it's best to have an informal chat with your neighbour to explain your plans.
- Serve An Official Notice - You must give your neighbour written notice at least 2 months before work starts (and no more than 1 year before).
- Your Neighbour Responds - They have 14 days to respond. They can either agree to the work in writing or dissent (disagree). If they don't respond, it is automatically considered a dissent.
- If They Disagree - You must appoint a party wall surveyor to draw up a legal "Party Wall Award" or Agreement. This document outlines the work, documents the wall's current condition, and identifies responsibility for any potential damage.
How much does a party wall agreement cost?
- Party Wall Agreement (Award) - This is the main cost. If you and your neighbour use a single, agreed-upon surveyor, this typically costs £800 to £1,000.
- Complex or Disputed Cases - If each side appoints its own surveyor, you will have to pay for both. Total costs for a complex agreement in London can rise to £1,500 per surveyor or more.
Does a Loft Conversion Need a Staircase?
To be considered a habitable room, a loft conversion needs a permanent staircase.
If the loft is only accessible by a loft ladder (no matter how sturdy), it should not be classed as a habitable room.
This is set out in the building regulations, and mostly due to the fact that in the event of a fire, a fixed staircase is classed as a designated means of escape.
What if my loft space only has a ladder?
Rather than being classed as a habitable room, it would be regarded as a 'loft room', or just additional storage space.
Legally, you won't be able to market it as an extra room, such as a bedroom, and while it may still add some value to your home, it won't be as much as a fully-formed conversion with a staircase.
| Feature | Loft Conversion (with Staircase) | Loft Room (with Ladder) |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Status | A fully compliant, habitable room | A non-habitable storage or hobby space |
| Building Regs Compliance | Must fully comply (fire, structure, etc.) | May not need to meet habitable room standards |
| Safety | Designed with a safe means of escape | Not considered safe to sleep in |
| Value Added | Significant (often 20%+) | Moderate |
Do I Need an Architect for a Loft Conversion?
Having an architect draw up plans for your loft conversion gives you a clear record of what the loft conversion should look like - with no ambiguity.
The cost will depend on how detailed they are, although as a guide, basic plans cost around £400 and more detailed versions can cost up to £1,500.
More detailed plans can be helpful in allowing your contractor to give you an accurate quote for your loft conversion.
What types of professionals can design a loft conversion for me?
How to Keep Down Costs of a Loft Conversion
A loft conversion is a significant investment, but there are several smart ways to manage the budget without compromising on quality. Here are our top tips for keeping your costs down:
- Manage the Project Yourself — Instead of paying a lead contractor's project management fee, you can coordinate tradespeople and deliveries yourself if you have the time and experience. This alone can save you between £1,500 and £10,000, depending on the scale of the job.
- Opt for a 'Shell' Conversion — Get a contractor to complete the main structural work (floor, walls, windows, stairs) and then manage the internal fit-out yourself. This allows you to hire individual trades or DIY the rest, spreading the cost and saving on labour.
- Take on DIY Tasks — You can save a significant amount by handling non-structural work yourself. Even just taking on the final painting and decorating can save you up to £2,000 on painter's fees.
- Choose Standard Fittings and Finishes — High-end bathroom suites, bespoke fitted wardrobes, and premium flooring can add thousands to your bill. Opting for good quality, standard "off-the-shelf" products from trade suppliers is a simple way to keep costs under control.
Possible Issues You May Come Across When Converting a Loft
While planning in advance and hiring the right contractor for the job will eliminate many potential issues, there are times when you can be faced with unexpected hurdles:
- Party Wall Disagreements — If your neighbour objects to the work or claims that you have caused damage to the party wall during the work, you can suffer delays and legal expenses.
- Finding Asbestos — In an older property, it is possible that you might come across asbestos in your loft space. This needs to be professionally removed by a qualified specialist, and asbestos removal costs around £2,750.
- Incorrect Fixtures and Fittings — As well as the size of fixtures such as baths and showers, it's important to ensure utilities are fitted in the correct place, as well as allowing space for doors, etc.
- Missing Planning Permission — To avoid enforcement action or having to undo any work, always check with your local council in advance if you are unsure if permission is required.
Checklist: Hiring a Loft Conversion Specialist
When you are hiring a contractor for a loft conversion, you will need to have faith in them. It is a big project and an important decision.
- Are they qualified? Look for builders with proven experience in loft conversions. Membership of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) or registration with TrustMark helps ensure professional standards.
- Are they insured? A contractor should hold public liability insurance (at least £2 million). This protects you in case of property damage or injury during the project.
- Is waste removal included? Confirm that waste removal and disposal are included in the total cost.
- Do they have positive reviews? Check their MyJobQuote profile to read feedback from previous clients. Reviews can give you insight into their reliability, communication, and quality of work.
- Can you check their past work? Ask to see photos or visit completed loft conversions if possible.
- Will they handle building control? Most contractors will do this but make sure it is clearly agreed as it is your responsibility.
- What are the payment terms? Agree on payment terms before work starts. Avoid large upfront payments. A typical setup is a 10% to 20% deposit, with the balance paid upon completion or at agreed stages.
- Do they offer a guarantee? Reputable contractors should be happy to provide a warranty or guarantee for their work, either directly or through an approved scheme.
Aim to get at least 3 quotes from loft conversion specialists near you. This will give you a clear idea of local pricing and help you find a trustworthy professional for your project.


