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Hip to Gable Loft Conversion: Comprehensive 2025 Guide
- A hip to gable loft conversion is created by straightening the sloped “hipped” side of your roof and extending the original roofline to create a vertical “gable” wall
- This type of conversion can increase your home’s appeal to potential buyers and add an extra value of 10% to 20% depending on the size and type of loft conversion
- Loft conversions can add between 20m2 and 40m2 of additional floor space and 2 metres of headspace
- A hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £45,000 to £50,000 for 2-3 bedroom homes, with variations based on size, location, materials, and completion time.
Ideal for detached, semi-detached and end-of-terrace homes, a gable end loft conversion not only adds valuable square footage to your home but can increase its desirability to potential buyers which will significantly boost the value of your home.
By extending the sloping side of your roof to create a vertical “gable wall”, this conversion type creates more living space that was previously unused. This gives you the flexibility to create any room you want, whether it is a bedroom, home office, guest room, or playroom.
If are you looking to unlock new possibilities within your home? Then, a hip to gable loft conversion may be the perfect solution for you.
Our guide covers everything you need to know, from planning permission to hip to gable loft conversion costs, ensuring a smooth and successful transformation. Whether you want an additional bedroom, a home office, or a playroom for the kids, a hip to gable loft conversion offers endless possibilities. So, let’s begin!
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How does a hip to gable conversion work?
A hip-to-gable loft conversion involves straightening the sloped side of your roof, the “Hipped end", and extending the roofline to create a vertical "Gable" wall. A hipped roof type is where the sides of your roof slope down towards the eaves; removing one of the sloped sides and replacing it with a vertical gable wall opens up more space in your attic.
It's essential to consider your roof's pitch before attempting any loft conversion. The pitch of your roof refers to the angle of its slope, which is determined by measuring the rise of the roof against its length.
Gable-end loft conversions require a roof to have three or more pitches. If your roof has less pitches, other loft conversion types can be possible for your property.
This type of conversion can add between 20m2 and 40m2 of new space to your property, depending on its size. This additional space provides ample possibilities and benefits for you and your family.
Why choose a hip to gable loft conversion?
A gable end loft extension is a popular method to expand your living space. However, there are additional benefits that it can offer.
- Increases living space: A gable end conversion can increase the headspace in your loft by at least 2 metres and create an additional floor space of 20m2 to 40m2, depending on the size of your property. Giving you ample space to create your desired room.
- Enhances the value of your property: Loft conversions can increase your home's value by 10% to 20%, according to Nationwide. While the upfront cost of a conversion is substantial, the return on investment makes the conversion worthwhile.
- Generates rental income: Renting out a converted loft can be an excellent way to increase your income, especially if you're comfortable with having tenants or Airbnb guests. The average rent for a room in the UK is £739 per month, according to the property website Spareroom. However, it's essential to remember that you must comply with local laws and regulations if you decide to become a landlord or Airbnb host.
- Increases energy efficiency: A hip to gable loft conversion can enhance your home's energy efficiency by allowing you to install double-glazed windows and high-quality insulation. These upgrades can help you reduce your energy bills and save up to £235 to £445 annually. Moreover, if you decide to install solar panels on your loft conversion, you can potentially save an additional £730 on energy bills per year.
- Avoids the need for an extension: This is a great way to increase living space in your home without needing a house extension. Additionally, house extensions often require planning permission, which can be a hassle. By opting for a loft conversion, you can save money on materials, maintain your outdoor space, and avoid the stress of dealing with planning permissions.
Hip to gable loft conversion cost
The average cost for a hip to gable loft conversion ranges from £45,000 to £50,000 for a 3 bedroom household. The final price can vary depending on your specific requirements and needs, such as the size of the property, the materials used, the labour costs, and any additional features you want to add, like a bathroom or built-in storage.
It is essential to keep these factors in mind when planning and budgeting for your loft conversion project. Whether you want a cost-effective solution or a high-end luxury space, it is to keep track of your finances during the hip to gable loft conversion process.
Knowing the costs involved will help you make informed decisions and stay within your budget throughout the conversion process. Below are the costs you will need to be aware of before beginning your loft conversion.
- Labour costs: Labour accounts for 40% to 45% of the overall cost of your conversion project. The price of labour may increase depending on the size of your property and its location. In addition, many contractors charge a premium price for homes in cities.
- Supply costs: The cost of supplies is a crucial factor to consider when calculating the total cost of your loft conversion. The type of materials you choose, whether you prefer standard or high-quality finishes, will impact the supply costs, which can either increase or decrease. Supply costs include structural beams, scaffolding, electrics, flooring, insulation, windows, staircases, and bathrooms. It's important to remember that the size of your property, the location of your home as well as the addition of bathroom will also affect the overall price of supplies.
- Additional costs: Adding costs for lighting fixtures, new radiators, roof tile replacement and repairs, and getting help from structural engineers and architects will increase the overall price of a hip to gable loft conversion. It's important to keep in mind that unforeseen expenses are a possibility, and you may need to handle issues like relocating water tanks or addressing electrical problems during your project.
We recommend contacting our specialists to obtain loft conversion quotes to help you budget, plan, and understand the total costs of a gable end conversion.
Ready to begin your loft conversion? Skip the hassle of searching for quotes. Fill out our quick form to receive up to 3 quotes from trusted local installers and start planning today! Click below to get started!
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Rules & regulations for hip to gable conversions in the UK
It is important to familiarise yourself with the limitations and requirements of your home before starting a hip to gable loft conversion. This will help reduce the likelihood of encountering any issues that may delay or stop the construction process.
It is recommended to seek advice from a structural engineer and architect for further guidance on hip to gable end conversions. They will be able to help with planning permission requests and determine the limitations of your loft conversion project.
However, it is highly advisable to consult with your local council for professional guidance on the rules and regulations related to this type of conversion, regardless of whether you choose to seek advice from an engineer or architect.
Planning Permission
A hip to gable loft conversion falls within permitted planning in the UK . Permitted development rights allow householders to improve and extend their homes without applying for planning permission, according to GOV.UK.
However, it's important to obtain a formal lawful development certificate to confirm that your conversion is within the permitted planning limits. To do this, you need to submit your hip-to-gable loft conversion plans to your local planning authority.
It's worth noting that certain homes, such as those on protected land, world heritage sites, and conservation areas in the UK, do require planning permission for any type of loft conversion. Additionally, flats and maisonettes also require planning permission.
If you're unsure whether you need planning permission or not, we suggest getting in touch with an architect to help you navigate the planning process.
Whether you need planning permission or not, we recommend speaking to your local planning authority via your local council to obtain further information on planning permissions for loft conversions.
Despite gable end loft conversion being permitted planning. Planning is only allowed if you follow the regulations below:
- Works do not extend beyond the highest point of the existing roof.
- Works are not on protected land such as World Heritage Sites, National Parks and Conservation sites.
- Work does not extend beyond any existing roof slope.
- Materials used in exterior work are similar to the original.
- New loft space does not exceed 40 cubic metres for end-of-terrace houses.
- New loft space does not exceed 50 cubic metres for detached and semi-detached houses.
- There is no construction of a verandah, balcony or raised platform.
- Side-facing windows feature obscured glazing and an opening that is 1.7 metres above the floor.
Building Regulations
All households must comply with building regulations to ensure the health, safety and well-being of everyone involved in and around the loft conversion. Before starting a hip to gable loft conversion, there are several key factors to consider regarding building regulations:
- Determining whether you share a party wall such as an end-terrace and semi-detached with your neighbour is important. A party wall is a shared boundary or wall between two properties. If you share a party wall, you must obtain a "party wall award". This legal document acts as an agreement between yourself and the person you share the party wall with. This document will highlight what work should happen, how and when it will be carried out and who will pay for the work to be carried out
- If you suspect bats to be living in your loft, then it is mandatory to have a bat survey done by an ecologist. Bats are an endangered species in the UK, therefore it is considered an offence if you cause any harm to bats or their habitat.
- Building inspections are mandatory for all home types and loft conversions. This ensures structural strength in your loft conversion, accessible fire escape routes, well-designed loft stairs and reasonable sound insulation. You can hire a building inspector however many builders are already registered with the “Competence person scheme” which confirms they are aligned with building regulations.
Is a gable end conversion a good option for you?
If you have a detached, semi-detached or end-of-terrace home, your home may be a good fit for a gable end conversion.
To determine whether your home is suitable for a hip to gable loft conversion, there are some key considerations to keep in mind, such as the existing roof structure, availability of loft space, and any planning restrictions that may apply.
Unfortunately, if you live in a mid-terrace house or flat, it is unlikely you will be able to proceed with a hip to gable loft conversion. This is mainly due to the roof structure of these properties, which lack a hipped side. Additionally, these property types have party walls on either side, which makes construction of this loft type impossible.
Don’t worry, though; there are other types of loft conversion that you can choose from that will provide a bright, airy loft that you crave!
Ready to begin your loft conversion? Skip the hassle of searching for quotes. Fill out our quick form to receive up to 3 quotes from trusted local installers and start planning today! Click below to get started!
- Describe your needs
- Get free quotes
- Choose the best offer
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