loft getting prep for conversion

How much does a loft conversion cost?

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Price guide

£13,000 - £76,000

low

£13,000

median

£38,000

high

£76,000

Low, median and high bar chart distribuiton

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Want a cozy new reading nook or a place to host dinner parties? A loft conversion is a great option if you’re looking for additional space for a guest bedroom or a light-filled living area. Not only does it create more space, but it also adds value to your home.

Loft conversion costs around £27,000 to £76,000, depending on the loft conversion type. As for the price per square metre, it will cost between £1,200 and £2,000. You’ll also need to allot a minimum of two weeks and a maximum of 12 for your new loft.

Are you planning for a house renovation, specifically your loft space? Read on to know the costs to consider in planning your loft-building project.

Price list of loft conversion

Here is a table that shows the average cost for a loft conversion according to type.

Type

Average cost

Velux loft conversion cost

Starts at £15,000 

Shell loft conversion

Starts at £13,000

Dormer loft conversion cost

Starts at £30,000 

Modular loft conversion price

Starts at £50,000

Hip-to-gable loft conversion

Starts at £41,000

Mansard loft conversion

Starts at £45,000 

Bungalow loft conversion cost

Starts at £34,000

Meanwhile, here are the costs of the jobs involved in loft conversion, such as working with an architect.

Task

Average cost

Internal preparation

£1,200

Scaffolding

£3,300

Roof structure alterations and roof coverings

£10,000

Steelwork for structural changes

£4,000

Joinery without staircase

£3,900

Staircase

£2,200

Electrical work and plumbing system

£2,700

Plastering and decor work

£4,000

Architect fees

£750

Common types of loft conversions

loft-converted-into-a-living-spaceThe type of loft you want will determine how much a loft conversion would cost.

Dormer loft

A dormer loft, which is the most affordable conversion, is usually referred to as a ‘box conversion’ due to the shape created on top of your roof. For this type, you are simply adding structure on top of the roof space rather than rebuilding or remodelling the exterior walls. Dormer loft conversion costs can go between $12,000 to $52,000. If you’re looking to add headroom and overall floor area, this might be the best option. 

Velux loft

Does your house have ample loft space? Then this may be the best choice for you. Velux conversions are simpler, cheaper, and easier to construct. Tradesmen simply install Velux windows into the rafters and your inside roof space is fitted out. 

Bungalow loft

Bungalows, or tiny free-standing houses, are great for loft conversions. If you have a bungalow and want a second storey or to expand your living space, then a bungalow loft conversion is a great choice. Bungalow loft conversion costs vary depending on the position and pitch of the ceiling. 

Mansard loft

Do you want to maximize your available space? You may opt for a mansard loft conversion. This type of loft is usually built at the rear of a property as an extension with a flat roof and a 72-degree sloping wall. Note, though, that this type usually requires roof alterations, so you’ll probably need to follow building regulations.

Factors affecting the costs of loft conversions 

unfinished-loft-conversion

Loft size

The bigger the space and the more materials needed, the higher the cost of loft conversion. This is especially true for projects requiring structural modifications to comply with building standards. Bigger lofts with extra features will require more time or manpower to meet a specific time frame compared to a basic loft conversion.  

Existing roof structure

The condition of your existing roof may need repairs, or an entire new overhaul, depending on the loft type you want to convert to. If you need to raise the roof, you may need to consider this as an additional cost.

Type of loft conversion

The type will determine the process needed, the supplies, as well as the duration of the project. How intricate is the design you want? The more intricate the details, the more expensive it gets. So if you’re on a budget, you can make the loft as simple as possible but still functional and beneficial for your home and lifestyle.

Style and quality of finishings

This includes stairs, which are lofts’ means of access. The more complex your stairs are, the more costly they can get. Meanwhile, you can choose from various window styles, including dormers, skylights or both. Window choices can ramp up prices, especially if you want more. If on a tight budget, it can also be constructed via DIY.

Labour

Loft conversion requires a lot of work, and some of these tasks should only be done by professionals (such as electricity and plumbing). You will need to factor this into the total cost, but hiring professionals for such services will ensure that your loft will be safe to use when it’s done and ready.

Where you live

Loft conversion in major cities would cost more. So if you live in central areas, you will need to factor in costlier materials and labour due to location.

How to save money on a loft conversion

You can still convert your loft into a breathable new space without breaking the bank. Just remember the following tips:

  • Consider a smaller loft for lower costs. Upgrading a small space requires fewer materials and labour. 

  • Start with a simple design you can easily improve in the future. Trends come and go, so if you want a cost-effective choice that’s timeless and classic, you may want to choose a minimalist design you can conveniently improve in the future.

  • Pick off-the-shelf materials over bespoke finishings, as customised finishings will tend to cost double the price or more.

A loft conversion project can be a bit stressful, but don’t forget to enjoy the process! After it’s done, you’ll get to enjoy a fresh new space at home.

Post a task for a loft conversion

Book a reliable and experienced expert for your loft conversion project and enjoy a quality, long-standing loft for your home. 

Once you’re ready to start the project, create a task on our platform. Taskers can also help you with other services, such as architectural rendering and house renovation. Post a task now, connect with a local contractor, and get an accurate quote in minutes! 

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FAQs about loft conversion

A loft conversion is generally cheaper, more straightforward, and covers anything from turning the attic into a bedroom to raising the roof to the height of the ridge (such as a dormer). An extension makes the house larger. Whereas a conversion typically adds a little, an extension adds a whole living space.

If your objective is to increase the value of your home, then loft conversion is worth it since it serves as an additional room. Your loft is also worth transforming if you want to add floor space for a home office or extra room and need it done quickly. 

A loft conversion project can take about 2-10 weeks to complete, depending on the size of your loft and the type of loft conversion you choose.

In most cases, as long as the loft conversion project adheres to certain limits and conditions of your country, then it is considered permitted development. But to be sure, you can find out whether or not you need planning permission by confirming it with an architect or builder.

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