replacing paddle stairs

Question

I have paddle stairs leading up to the loft, and i want to replace them with the  normal stairs and build a stud wall to enclose them and a door for access of the hallway, how much would this cost and do i need any planning etc for this? thank you

Charlie · Accepted Answer

The cost would be hard to predict without pricing the job up in person but you would be talking between £1,000 - £3,000 depening on the type of materials for stair and finish. And this should not require planning as long as you use a fire door.

Chris · Answer

As long as only putting a stud wall you should be fine. You would be looking around a £1000 to £1250 chris

Amar · Answer

You are looking about £1500 to £3000 estimated with out looking at in person 👍

Daniel · Answer

Hi Teresa.
You don't need planning. 
Without seeing the job it would be between £1000-£2000.
All the best.

Ras · Answer

Cost: Roughly £3,000–£7,000+, depending on stair type, layout changes, stud wall, door, and finishes.

Alexander · Answer

Hi my name is Alex and I’m the owner of A&F Builders. It would be around £3000 and no you don’t need any planning for.

Durga · Answer

That’s a common upgrade — it makes your loft more usable and safer.

2️⃣ Rough Cost Guide

Prices vary depending on materials, space, and builder rates, but typical UK costs for a job like this are:

🔹 Fixed stairs installation: £800 – £2,500
(Depending on design, size & materials)

🔹 Stud wall & door frame: £400 – £900
(Including plasterboard and finishing)

🔹 Door & ironmongery: £80 – £250
(Basic doors to mid-range solid core)

Estimated Total:
👉 £1,300 – £4,500 (labour + materials)

Higher end if:

You want handrails

Carpet / wood finishes

Custom stair design

Structural alterations

3️⃣ What’s Included

A typical quote will usually include:
✔ Removing old paddle stairs
✔ Installing new fixed staircase
✔ Framing & securing to floor joists
✔ Building stud wall to enclose stairs
✔ Hanging new internal door
✔ Plasterboarding & finishing
✔ Basic decorations (paint ready)

Extras can include:
✨ Skirting & trim matching
✨ Painted finish
✨ Flooring at the top and bottom

4️⃣ Do You Need Planning Permission?

🔹 Usually NOT.
Replacing loft access with fixed stairs inside the home is permitted development as long as:

It doesn’t change the roofline externally

It doesn’t enlarge the building

It doesn’t affect the structure in a major way

Most installations fall under internal alterations only.

However:

📍 If your home is listed or in a Conservation Area, you may need consent.
📍 If structural changes are significant (cutting major joists), you might need Building Control notification.

Most reputable builders will handle or advise on this.

5️⃣ Building Control

For safety, some builders will notify Building Control or issue a completion certificate. This isn’t always mandatory, but it’s best practice.

They ensure that:

Headroom is correct

Stairs are safe

Fire safety is considered

6️⃣ Who Can Do This Work?

You will need a carpenter/joiner or general builder experienced with stairs. It’s not a DIY-level job unless you’re very confident and experienced.

7️⃣ What to Ask When Getting Quotes

When you contact builders, include:

📍 The exact space dimensions
📍 Whether you want carpet/wood finish
📍 Type of door required
📍 Whether handrails are needed
📍 Photos if possible

Chris · Answer

No planning is needed. 
Price wise you would be looking at sn estimate of around £2400-£2700

Sam · Answer

Good morning,

The main concern would be to establish wether the joist in the ceiling would be suitable to hold the weight of a stair case however there are certainly ways of doing so,

It could be alright but I would certainly want to take the floor boards up above and inspect it before putting extra weight on the joists

In terms of cost it would all depend on the work involved to make sure it’s safe enough to do so

Josh · Answer

Hi without seeing the job id estimate between £1250 and £1750 and no planning would be needed for these works

replacing paddle stairs

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