Guide

Loft conversion types — which one is right for your roof?

The five formats we build in London, with realistic costs, planning notes and the trade-offs nobody tells you on a sales call.

Cost calculator

A realistic London estimate — in 30 seconds.

Indicative only. Final figures depend on your roof, party walls and spec — we confirm everything in writing after a free home visit.

01 · Conversion type
02 · Size
28
12 m²40 m²70 m²
03 · Finish level
04 · Add-ons
Velux roof light loft conversion
Typical London cost
£25k–£45k
01

Roof Light / Velux

Best for · Homes with enough existing loft height

The simplest and cheapest option. Windows are added into the existing roof slope without changing the roof structure much.

Pros
  • Most affordable
  • Fast build time
  • Usually minimal planning issues
  • Keeps exterior appearance mostly unchanged
Cons
  • Less headroom
  • Smaller usable floor area
  • Not ideal for low-pitch roofs
Best suited to
Terraced homesSemi-detached housesBudget-conscious projects
Rear dormer loft conversion
Typical London cost
£45k–£75k+
02

Dormer

Best for · Maximising usable space

A box-shaped extension added to the rear or side roof slope to create extra head height and floor space.

Pros
  • Most popular in London
  • Adds significant room space
  • Good value increase
  • Works on most property types
Cons
  • Changes roof appearance
  • Mid-range cost
Best suited to
Growing familiesAdding bedrooms + en-suitesVictorian terraces
Hip-to-gable loft conversion
Typical London cost
£55k–£85k+
03

Hip-to-Gable

Best for · Semi-detached or end-of-terrace homes

The sloping 'hip' roof side is built vertically to create more loft width.

Pros
  • Creates substantial extra space
  • Looks natural when done well
  • Often combined with a rear dormer
Cons
  • More structural work
  • Higher cost
Best suited to
1930s semisCorner propertiesHomes with hipped roofs
Mansard loft conversion
Typical London cost
£70k–£150k+
04

Mansard

Best for · Maximum space + premium finish

A major roof reconstruction with a near-vertical rear wall and flat roof.

Pros
  • Largest increase in living space
  • Premium appearance
  • Highest property value uplift
  • Feels like a full additional floor
Cons
  • Most expensive
  • Usually requires planning permission
  • Longer build time
Best suited to
Central LondonHigh-value homesLuxury master suites
L-shaped dormer loft conversion
Typical London cost
£65k–£110k+
05

L-Shaped Dormer

Best for · Victorian and Edwardian terraces

Two connected dormers forming an 'L' shape over the rear addition roof.

Pros
  • Massive floor area gain
  • Great for 2 rooms + bathroom
  • Excellent resale value
Cons
  • Complex build
  • Higher structural costs
Best suited to
South London terracesFamily homesMulti-room layouts
Value uplift

Which loft adds the most value?

In London, a quality loft conversion can add 15–25% to the property value, plus the bedroom premium and a stronger EPC.

Best ROI, in order
  1. 01Rear DormerBest balance of cost vs. space.
  2. 02Hip-to-Gable + DormerSubstantial gain on semis and end-of-terrace.
  3. 03MansardHighest value, highest cost.
Permissions

Planning permission, plain English.

Usually permitted development
  • Rear dormers
  • Roof light conversions
  • Some hip-to-gable projects
Usually needs planning
  • Mansards
  • Front-facing dormers
  • Conservation areas
  • Flats / maisonettes
Build timeline

How long it takes on site.

Velux2–4 weeks
Dormer6–10 weeks
Hip-to-Gable8–12 weeks
Mansard10–16 weeks
Minimum loft height

Will my loft work?

Ideal starting height is 2.2 m+ from the floor joist to the ridge. Below 2.1 m it usually means lowering the ceiling below or raising the ridge — possible, but a different conversation.

Most popular in London
Rear Dormer

Best balance of cost vs. space, works on Victorian terraces, usually the easiest planning route, strong ROI.

Common add-ons

The details that make it feel finished.

En-suite bathroom
Juliet balcony
Built-in wardrobes
Skylights
Smart lighting
Underfloor heating
Next step

Not sure which type fits your roof? We'll tell you in an hour.