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How Much Does a Hip to Gable Loft Conversion Cost In 2024
- A hip to gable loft conversion cost is between £45,000 to £50,000 in 2024 for a two to three bedroom household.
- The size of your property, location, the materials used, labour and decorating will all affect the overall cost of a hip to gable conversion.
- A hip to gable loft conversion can add 10-20% on your home’s value depending on the number of existing rooms you have. Additional rooms can enhance your property’s appeal to potential buyers.
- You can save on the cost of your loft conversion by using standard materials, reusing products, and DIY-ing jobs such as painting and decorating.
Are you considering a hip to gable loft conversion and wondering about the cost? Then you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we will take you through all the costs involved in a hip to gable loft conversion in 2024, from the size of your property to the labour costs and materials required. Understanding the costs of the project is crucial if you want to turn your loft into a functional and stylish space, whether it’s for accommodating a growing family or creating a home office.
Don’t let the costs discourage you. With our comprehensive guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of the expected costs and be able to make an informed decision. Keep reading to learn more!
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How much does it cost to convert a hip to gable loft?
A hip to gable loft conversion costs, on average £45,000 to £50,000 in the UK. The cost of this loft conversion type depends on several factors, such as the size and type of your property, the materials and finish you choose to use and any specific additional features you may wish, like built-in storage.
A hip to gable loft conversion is generally more expensive than a simple conversion such as a “Velux” or “Dormer” as it requires significant changes to your property’s roof structure.
Restructuring your roof will be the most expensive part as additional materials and labour are needed compared to other loft conversions in the UK. However, the result is a spacious and elegant living area that can add significant value to your property.
Understanding these factors allows you to better plan and budget for your loft conversion project.
Whether you are looking to budget, add value to your home or upgrade to a more carbon-neutral household, here you can have a realistic estimate for your finances and make informed decisions throughout the conversion process.
Price per square metre
On average, loft conversions cost between £2,000 and £4,000 per square metre. Gable end loft conversions will be towards the higher price range, given the extensive work required on the roof.
In the UK, the average loft size is around 20m2 to 30m2. However, larger homes usually have a loft size of 40m2. Based on your property’s size, we can give you an estimated cost for a hip-to-gable loft conversion.
| Home Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Average Semi-Detached Home | £35,000 to £50,000 |
| Large Semi-Detached Home | £50,000 to £65,000 |
| Average Detached Home | £40,000 to £55,000 |
| Large Detached Home | £60,000 to £75,000 |
Return of investment
Although the hip to gable loft conversion cost may initially seem pricey, the value a loft extension will add to your property will make it worthwhile! With a loft conversion, you can expect 10-20% added to the value of your home, according to Nationwide. Your property type will determine the estimate of value added.
- Terraced Homes: 10-13%
- Semi-Detached Homes: 11-17%
- Detached Homes: 12-13%
We want to demonstrate the value of investing in a hip to gable loft conversion. We’ve used the average home prices provided by National Stats UK as of December 2023 which includes all home types and added a 10% increase. This shows what an excellent investment a hip to gable loft conversion can be:
| Location | Average Price of a home | 10% increase value |
|---|---|---|
| England | £302,000 | £30,200 |
| Wales | £214,000 | £21,400 |
| Scotland | £190,000 | £19,000 |
| Northern Ireland | £178,000 | £17,800 |
With the growing demand for additional living space, particularly in densely populated areas, the 2 bedroom loft conversion cost is much more affordable than cost of increasing the house size.
Whether it’s a spacious primary bedroom, a home office, or a playroom for the kids, the additional space created by a hip to gable loft conversion can significantly enhance the marketability of your property.
What factors affect the cost of hip to gable loft conversion?
There are many factors that will affect the hip to gable loft conversion cost. Property size, location, materials used, labour, decorating and the timeline of this project all will play a significant role in the final price of your loft conversion.
Higher quality materials such as wooden floors, spray foam insulation or double glazed-windows will escalate costs. However, by opting for these materials, you will see a better return on investment as it will increase energy efficiency and add value to your property for potential buyers. We have broken down all the factors that will contribute to cost with their benefits below.
Supply Costs
Supply costs are essential considerations when budgeting for a hip to gable loft conversion. As of 2024, we are seeing a slow stabilisation of supply costs according to the BCIS Private Housing Construction Price Index.
However, it is important to note that those who wish to use more eco-friendly raw materials such as wooden floors or steel beams will see an increase within the first five months of 2024, as stated by the ISM.
Whether you are on a strict budget or prefer more luxurious finishes such as bespoke built-in storage or high-end bathroom fittings, you can expect the hip to gable loft conversion cost to increase or decrease according to your choices.
The following table displays a variety of prices for various supplies. The price range is determined by the size of the property and the materials used. For instance, if you intend to build a 40 square metre loft with high-quality materials, such as hardwood flooring, you should anticipate paying £60.00 per square metre.
| Supply | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Electrics | £500 to £1000 |
| Structural beams, joists and masonry | £1,500 to £4,000 |
| Insulation | £5 to £90 per m2 |
| Flooring | £7 to £60 per m2 |
| Windows | £160 to £2,000 per window |
| Internal doors | £30 to £180 per door |
| Staircase | £350 to £9,500 |
| Scaffolding | £131 per m2 |
| Bathroom | £4,500 to £6,000 |
| Decorating materials | £800 to £1,600 |
Electrics: Adding electricity to your loft can be a great way to get additional power sources such as plug sockets and smoke detectors. However, it is crucial to have an electrician inspect your loft and your home’s wiring to ensure it meets the existing safety standards.
If the wiring is up to standard, then you can proceed with the wiring of your loft. However, if the wiring is outdated or not up to standard, then you might need to rewire your entire house.
It’s important to consider the cost of inspection, wiring and the possibility of rewiring your entire house before making any decisions. This will help you plan your budget accordingly and avoid any unexpected costs.
Structural beams, joists and masonry: Structural beams, joists, and masonry are crucial in holding your new loft together, as attic structures were typically built to support only storage.
It’s important to note that the price of loft conversion can vary depending on the materials used, for example, steel beams versus timber, and the size of the loft. If your entire roof needs to be replaced, the cost of these supplies will increase up to £4,000.
Staircases: The price of your loft staircase is determined by various factors, such as the height, width, and materials used. Additional features like carpentry and handrails, as well as the complexity of the design, such as a spiral staircase, can impact the overall cost.
You can save on costs if you already have loft staircase in your home!
Decorating materials: When planning your hip to gable loft conversion, factors such as choosing paint or wallpaper, upcycling old furniture, or purchasing bespoke furniture can affect the overall cost
Labour Costs
The cost of hiring professionals to carry out the construction work is another significant factor to consider. Experienced builders and contractors will ensure that the conversion is done to the highest standards, but this expertise comes at a price. Labour costs can vary depending on the project’s complexity and your property’s location.
Labour accounts for 40-45% of a hip to gable loft conversion cost, according to Robin Callister of Urban Architects.
The average household will be expected to spend anywhere between £14,000 to £35,000 on labour alone. The price of labour will increase based on the size of your property, location, the addition of features such as built-in storage, en-suites and additional conversion elements such as a mansard or dormer extension.
| Tradesperson | Cost per hour |
|---|---|
| Builder | £20 to £60 |
| Electrician | £50 to £120 |
| Plumber | £30 to £50 |
| Tiler | £20 to £35 |
| Plasterer | £30 to £50 |
| Decorator | £20 to £50 |
As most tradespeople work on an hourly basis, it is vital to take into account the length of time it will take to convert your loft space. The hip to gable loft conversion cost the longer the project.
Typically a hip to gable loft conversion will take between 8 to 12 weeks. This depends on several factors, such as weather conditions, the size of your property and loft conversion, planning permissions and contractor availability. Below is the estimated breakdown per week:
- Week 1 to 2: Consider the preparation stage. Getting materials and tools will take place. By the end of week 2, the basic structure of your hip to gable loft will be in place.
- Week 3 to 4: Construction will shift into the interiors, including floors, windows and insulation.
- Week 5 to 7: The loft staircase,and any plumbing pipes and electrical cables will be installed.
- Week 8 to 12: Tiling, carpentry, and additional decoration will be placed in the loft space.
Below, we have listed the estimated time frame according to jobs during your loft conversion:
| Jobs | Average Time |
|---|---|
| Putting up Scaffolding | One day |
| Structural changes to the roof | One to two weeks |
| Fitting Windows | One to two days |
| Installing Staircase | Two to three days |
| Fitting Bathroom | Four to five days |
| Electrics | Two to three days |
| Fitting Flooring | One day |
| Decorating and Finishing | Three to four days |
| Taking down scaffolding | One day |
Additional Costs
Final hip to gable loft conversion costs will cover any additions you may require for the new space. These include light fixtures, the addition of radiators, replacing roof tiles, painting the home’s exterior and receiving expert help from a structural engineer and architect.
| Additional Features | Cost |
|---|---|
| Loft Lighting | £80 to £150 |
| Radiator Installation | £250 to £350 |
| Replacing Roof Tiles | £150 to £400 |
| Painting Exterior of the Home | £3,500 to £4,000 |
| Moving the Water Tank | £400 to £1,000 |
| Architect Fees | £750 to £1,500 |
| Structural Engineer Fees | £750 to £2,000 |
The cost of fixtures and fittings, such as bathroom fixtures, radiators and lighting, can vary greatly depending on your preferences and the desired customisation level. It’s important to consider when looking at hip to gable loft conversion costs.
In addition, you will also need to hire a structural engineer. They will assess your roof’s load-bearing capacity and determine if you need additional support beams. They can also assist you with an application for planning permission if required.
Architects do not necessarily need to be involved in your hip-to-gable loft conversion. However, the benefits of using one early in the development outweigh the initial cost.
They can assist with creating a clear plan and identify possible issues that will save you time and money.
By considering these additional prices and factoring them into your budget, you can ensure that the hip to gable loft conversion cost stays within your financial means and delivers the desired results.
Building Regulations & Planning Permission
Hip-to-gable loft conversions are usually allowed under permitted planning regulations, but some properties require additional checks before starting. These include properties located in World Heritage Sites, National Parks, and conservation areas.
If your property falls under these categories, hiring an architect or structural engineer, who can assist you with obtaining planning permission is advisable. We suggest reaching out to the LPA through your local council to see if you can continue with construction.
All households must comply with building regulations, meaning that building inspections are mandatory for all loft conversions. If you suspect that bats are nesting in your attic, you must carry out bat surveys. Additionally, party wall awards are required if your home shares a “party wall” with your neighbours.
Below is the breakdown of these requirements that may add to the overall hip to gable loft conversion cost:
- Building Inspection: All loft conversions must comply with building regulations. It is essential to adhere to regulations to ensure the structural safety of your home. This is especially crucial if you plan on reselling your property.
To comply with these regulations, a building officer must carry out an inspection to ensure all work meets required standards. The cost of inspection will be between £500 to £900.
The price of the inspection will depend on the size of your loft. For instance, if you plan to build a 40m2 loft, you will pay a higher price.
However, if your builder is registered with the Competence person scheme, then an inspection will not be necessary as your tradesperson will be aligned with building regulations. - Bat surveys: If you suspect bats to be living in your loft, then a bat survey must be carried out. As bats are an endangered species in the UK, this is a legal requirement.
A bat survey, which includes the use of infrared cameras, radars, and bat detectors to monitor activity over a period of time, will cost you between £500 for a preliminary consultation. If it is noted that you have bats on your property then you are required to pay for a second bat survey that may cost up to £1,000 or more. - Party Wall Award: For those of you living in semi-detached or terraced houses, party wall awards are mandatory. It is a legal document that acts as an agreement between yourself and those you share a wall with.
This document will cost around £1575 per wall for your loft conversion and will specify which work can happen, how and when it should be carried out and who will pay for which part.
Types Of Hip To Gable Conversions
The hip to gable loft conversion is undoubtedly one of the best loft extensions for those living in detached, semi-detached, and end-of-terrace homes. Although, initially the hip to gable loft conversion cost can be high, the additional space and increased property value make it a worthwhile investment.
However, if you are on a strict budget or cannot alter the exterior of your roof’s home can always opt for a “Velux loft conversion”.
This is a simple conversion that adds in Velux windows. It will not provide additional space but will create an airy feel to your once-dark attic. At an average rate of £27,500, this conversion type is ideal for all budgets and home types.
For detached homes, a total hip to gable conversion is the most suitable choice as it allows both ends of your property to be equipped with a vertical gable wall providing ample space for your household.
However, if you are in a semi-detached or end-of-terrace home, you may discover that there are some limitations on floor and head space, especially if you share a party wall with your neighbour.
There are additional features, such as a dormer or mansard extensions you can combine with your hip to gable end conversion that will supply you with that extra space you desire. We have broken down the types of hip to gable conversions and their costs.
| Property Type | Full Hip To Gable Conversion |
|---|---|
| Terrace | N/A |
| Semi-Detached | N/A |
| Detached | £90,000 to £100,000 |
| Property Type | Dormer Conversion |
|---|---|
| Terrace | £2,000 to £7,000 |
| Semi-Detached | £10,000 to £30,000 |
| Detached | £40,000 to £60,000 |
| Property Type | Mansard Conversion |
|---|---|
| Terrace | £50,000 to £55,000 |
| Semi-Detached | £55,000 to £65,000 |
| Detached | £65,000 to £75,000 |
Combining these elements will increase the hip to gable loft conversion cost but will add precious additional space to your home. This further increases usable space and adds more value to your property.
Ways You Can Reduce The Costs Of Hip To Gable Loft Conversion
While hip to gable loft conversion costs may be significant, you can reduce the overall costs in several ways without compromising on quality. Here are some cost-saving tips to consider:
Set a Realistic Budget
Understanding how much you are willing to spend on a hip to gable loft conversion cost and where your money is going is a hugely important aspect of saving money.
By doing this, you can avoid unexpected costs and financial surprises as the project moves forward. A well-planned budget can help you save money and ensure that the project is completed successfully.
Plan for Contingencies
It is essential to have a plan in place to deal with unexpected challenges that may arise during a project. These challenges can come in the form of unforeseen structural issues or sudden changes in material costs, which can cause an increase in your hip to gable loft conversion cost.
To prepare for such situations, it’s recommended to allocate a contingency fund within your budget. This fund should be around 10-15% of the total project cost. Having this buffer will enable you to adapt to any unforeseen challenges without compromising the quality or scope of your loft conversion project.
Consider Different Materials
If you are on a budget and planning for a loft conversion, opting for basic finishes, cheaper materials, and simple designs is a good idea. This will help you keep the hip to gable loft conversion cost down.
Investing in high-end insulation, such as spray foam, is recommended. While it may initially cost more, it can save up to £445 per year on energy bills for larger lofts by increasing energy efficiency. Although the material itself may be expensive, in the long run, the return on investment is likely to outweigh the initial cost.
Simplicity doesn’t mean that your loft has to look boring. With the help of an architect, you can still achieve an aesthetically pleasing look while staying within your budget. They can guide you in choosing the right design elements to enhance the look and feel of your loft conversion.
Consult with an Architect
Consulting with an architect can be crucial in saving you money. While it is not mandatory, it is highly advisable.
An architect can help you with low-priced materials, understanding planning restrictions and creating a good design that will appeal to future buyers. This overall will help reduce your hip to gable loft conversion cost.
Do it Yourself
If you possess some basic DIY skills, then you should certainly use them to reduce your hip to gable loft conversion cost.
Tasks such as painting, decorating, or even some minor carpentry could be areas where you can contribute. By completing some of these jobs yourself, you can reduce the labour costs associated with your project.
Reuse and Recycle Materials
When converting your loft, there is a vast potential in reusing and upcycling materials. Whether using repurposed wood for flooring or upcycling old furniture, you can reduce the cost of a hip to gable loft conversion and minimise environmental waste!
Financing a Hip To Gable Loft Conversion
Financing the cost of a hip to gable loft conversion is an important aspect to consider. Understanding how you can finance your loft conversion gives you more freedom in your choices. Here are some financing options to explore.
- Personal savings: If you have enough saved up, using your personal savings is a straightforward option. However, it’s important to ensure that you have enough set aside for any unexpected expenses that may arise during the conversion process.
- Home improvement loans: Many financial institutions offer loans for home improvement projects. These loans typically have lower interest rates compared to personal loans, making them an attractive option for financing your loft conversion:
- Secure loans: You can borrow large sums of money by using your home as collateral. As a result, lenders tend to give out bigger loans with better interest rates.
- Unsecured loans: Don’t require any of your assets to be offered as security. Unsecured loans tend to be less than secured loans, given that reason. However, it is a popular choice with borrowers as it is often quick to process. If you do have bad credit, getting this loan type accepted may be more challenging.
- Remortgaging: If you have sufficient equity in your property, remortgaging can be a viable option. By refinancing your mortgage, you can release funds to finance your loft conversion while potentially benefiting from lower interest rates.
It is important to note that, like secured loans, remortgaging your home will leave you vulnerable to having your home repossessed if you cannot make the payments. - Room in Roof Insulation Grants: The UK government now offers ECO4 grants, which provide money for households wishing to upgrade or install new insulation in their loft and attic spaces. This grant allows low-income families to increase their energy efficiency through their scheme.
Compare Hip To Gable Loft Conversion Quotes
Before embarking on your hip to gable loft conversion journey, it’s crucial to gather quotes from reputable contractors. You should have a complete understanding of the details and prices involved in this project so that you can make a conscious decision on which company is a better fit for you.
Comparing quotes will help you understand the average costs in your area and ensure you’re getting a fair deal. We recommend a minimum of four quotes to ensure you have the right range of pricing for your loft conversion.
It is also important to note that you should not decide based on price alone. Make sure to consider the reputation, experience and credentials of each contractor. The best company for your hip to gable conversion may not always be the cheapest but ultimately it will be worth the payoff.
Our online service allows you to get quotes from reputable contractors within your area, which will ultimately help reduce hip to gable loft conversion costs.
By understanding the cost factors, exploring cost-saving options, and exploring financing possibilities, you can confidently embark on this exciting home improvement project.
- Describe your needs
- Get free quotes
- Choose the best offer
FAQ
Caoimhe is an experienced content writer and researcher who is passionate about providing accessible information to every reader. With a background in English literature and Sociology, she combines the two disciplines to create cohesive, well-thought-out, and well-informed pieces.
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