Answer these simple questions and we will find you the BEST prices
Which type of solar quotes do you need?
Tell us what you need to find a matching specialist
Get free quotes from professionals near you
Compare offers and choose the one that best matches your need
How Much Does a Hip To Gable Loft Conversion Cost in 2025?
- A hip to gable loft conversion costs around £45,000 for a 2-3 bedroom house with a loft size of 20-30m2. If you opt for a loft size of 40m2 with luxury finishes, the price can increase to £80,000.
- Supply costs are decreasing by 2% as of 2025 but remain the most expensive factor of your loft conversion.
- You can save money on your loft conversion by setting a budget, planning for foreseen issues, opting for basic materials and finishes, and DIY-ing certain projects like painting
- Banks offer financial loans to finance the hip to gable loft conversion costs.
If you're considering converting your loft into a spacious and functional living area through a hip to gable loft conversion, it's important to have a clear understanding of the costs involved before embarking on the process.
This comprehensive guide, we'll provide you with a breakdown of hip to gable loft conversion costs in 2025, covering everything from materials and labour to planning and building regulations.
By providing you with valuable insights and tips for estimating costs, we'll help you make a well-informed decision about the conversion process. Converting your loft can add significant value to your property, especially with the current housing trends. But it's crucial to understand the potential expenses involved to avoid any surprises along the way.
Whether you're on a tight budget or willing to invest in a high-end conversion, this guide will help you estimate the costs accurately and prepare you for a home improvement journey that will transform your living space and increase your home's value.
Looking for the best gable-end conversion deal? WhatCost UK has you covered! Our network of specialists offer up to 3 free, home-tailored quotes at competitive prices. Simply fill out our 30-second form, and we’ll take care of the rest. Click to get started!
- Describe your needs
- Get free quotes
- Choose the best offer
- How much does a hip to gable loft conversion cost in the UK?
- Factors that impact the cost of a hip to gable loft conversion
- Hip to gable conversion cost with optional additions
- How to reduce the hip to gable loft conversion cost
- How to finance a hip to gable conversion
- Compare hip to gable loft conversion quotes
- FAQ
How much does a hip to gable loft conversion cost in the UK?
On average, a hip to gable loft conversion costs around £45,000 in the UK. This cost is based on a single-room loft conversion of approximately 20m2 for an average 2-bedroom house. However, the cost of a hip-to-gable loft conversion can increase up to £80,000, depending on various factors such as the location of your property, the size of your loft, your home type, and the materials and finishes you choose.
The cost will escalate further if you wish to add additional loft conversions, such as a dormer or mansard, to your gable end conversion.
The hip to gable loft conversion cost is generally higher than that of any other type of loft conversion. This is due to the extensive work required on the roof. In a gable end conversion, the sloping roof is replaced with a vertical brick wall to create more loft space.
Altering your roof's structure will require you to consider the cost of labour, supplies, and any additional costs such as surveyor, architect, and building inspection fees
Cost per m2
Pricing a hip to gable conversion may seem complicated, but it's helpful to know the average cost per square metre. This information can help you estimate roughly how much your conversion costs.
The cost of a loft conversion varies between £2,000 and £4,000 per square metre. However, hip-to-gable conversions are more expensive and may cost around £3,000 to £4,000 depending on the loft's size and the materials used.
The average size of a UK loft conversion ranges from 20m2 to 30m2 and is typically associated with end-of-terrace and semi-detached homes. The standard loft size for detached homes is 40m2, but it can be smaller based on your specific needs.
With this information, we can provide you with a rough estimate of how much your hip-to-gable loft conversion might cost.
| Home type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| 2 bedroom semi-detached | £35,000 to £50,000 |
| 3 bedroom semi-detached | £50,000 to £65,000 |
| 4 bedroom detached | £40,000 to £55,000 |
| 5 bedroom detached | £60,000 to £75,000 |
If you want an accurate estimate of the cost of the conversion for your home, we recommend consulting an architect or builder for a site inspection and a detailed estimate that covers all expenses, including materials, building fees, scaffolding expenses, interior design, and more.
Added value to your home
The hip to gable loft conversion cost initially seems pricey at first, but it offers several benefits to your home. One of the most appealing advantages of a gable end loft conversion is that it can increase your home's value. A 10% increase in floorspace can boost your property’s value by 5% according to Nationwide.
By transforming your loft into an additional room, you can expect to see a 10-20% increase in the value of your home, this may further increase with the addition of an ensuite. The percentage added is dependent on your home type and the number of existing bedrooms you have:
| Property Type | 2 bed to a 3 bed | 3 bed to a 4 bed |
|---|---|---|
| Semi-Detached | 17% | 11% |
| Detached | 13% | 12% |
The average household size in the UK is 2.36 people according to GOV.UK. As a result, many home buyers prefer a house with three bedrooms instead of two.
By transforming a once under-utilised space into a functional bedroom, home office or playroom, you will drastically increase the marketability of your home!
Looking for the best gable-end conversion deal? WhatCost UK has you covered! Our network of specialists offer up to 3 free, home-tailored quotes at competitive prices. Simply fill out our 30-second form, and we’ll take care of the rest. Click to get started!
- Describe your needs
- Get free quotes
- Choose the best offer
Factors that impact the cost of a hip to gable loft conversion
Several factors will influence the cost of your hip to gable loft conversion.
These include:
- The size of your home and loft space
- Your location
- Labour costs
- Supply costs
- Decorating and finishing
- Additional features such as a bathroom or built-in storage
- Permits and building inspections
- Architect and building surveyor fees
It is important to note that high-quality materials such as hardwood flooring, spiral staircases, or bespoke furniture will escalate the cost. If you are on a budget, keep these factors in mind. Opting for basic finishes, reusing furniture, and using standard finishes will help you lower your loft conversion cost.
Recognizing and understanding these factors before starting any loft conversion project is essential. By doing so, you can make informed decisions that will help you save money, time, and stress during the conversion process.
Budgeting and understanding the prices associated with each section of the project will enable you to plan effectively and avoid unpleasant surprises. Below, we discuss the factors influencing the cost of your hip to gable loft conversion.
Location
Urban areas typically have higher construction costs due to the premium charged by building experts who live in and around cities like London. Transporting materials can also be a challenge in densely populated areas.
By living in a city you will see an increase in your hip to gable loft conversion cost. On the other hand, rural homes must factor in the costs of shipping and transporting materials and labour to their location.
Labour costs
On average, the labour cost for household loft conversions can range from £14,000 to £35,000. The price of labour can vary depending on factors such as the size of the property, location, and additional features like built-in storage units, en-suites, and conversion elements like mansard or dormer extensions.
Labour accounts for 40-45% of a hip to gable loft conversion cost, according to Robin Callister of Urban Architects.
Tradespeople and contractors typically charge their clients on an hourly basis. It's worth noting that the more experienced and qualified a tradesperson is, the higher their fee is likely to be. When it comes to loft conversions, it's crucial to select a qualified tradesperson or contractor who can ensure that the conversion is structurally sound and complies with the relevant building regulations.
| Trade | Hourly cost |
|---|---|
| Builder | £20 to £60 |
| Electrician | £50 to £120 |
| Plumber | £30 to £50 |
| Decorator | £20 to £50 |
| Tiler | £20 to £35 |
| Plasterer | £30 to £50 |
The duration of labour will affect the hip-to-gable loft conversion cost.The timeline depends on several factors, such as weather conditions, the availability of labour and materials, the size of the loft conversion, planning permits, and building inspections.
On average a hip to gable loft conversion will take 8 to 12 weeks to complete. We have broken down a typical timeline of a hip to gable loft conversion:
| Timeframe | Labour |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Preparing materials, erecting the scaffolding |
| Week 2 | Restructuring the existing roof, adding in the gable wall |
| Week 3 to 4 | Installing windows, staircase and floors |
| Week 5 to 7 | Installing pipes and electrical cables |
| Week 8 to 12 | Decorating, carpentry, and tiling |
To better understand the timeframe, and hopefully help you with your loft conversion budget we have broken down the estimated time for each job in a hip to gable conversion:
- Putting up the scaffolding: One day
- Restructuring the roof: One to two weeks
- Installing windows: One to two days
- Installing staircase: Two to three days
- Installing flooring: One day
- Electrics: Two to three days
- Fitting Bathroom: Four to five days
- Decorating and finishing: Three to four days
If you're planning to convert your loft space, keep in mind that tradespeople usually charge by the hour. So, it's essential to factor in the duration of the project. Remember, the longer it takes, the higher the cost for hip to gable loft conversion. Make sure you plan accordingly to avoid any unwanted surprises.
Supply costs
Construction supplies are the materials that assist in the construction of structures which is essential for building your loft conversion in the UK. The price of these materials can vary based on several factors such as location, availability, and quality.
As of 2025, there has been a 2% decline in materials, according to Building Materials and Components Statistics. Although this can positively impact your loft conversion, there has also been a reduction in the delivery of supplies due to the decline in materials.
As a result, the construction timeline may be extended due to the decrease in material deliveries.
The cost of materials used in your loft conversion depends on your property's size and the material’s quality. High-quality materials such as hardwood floors, bespoke staircases, or spray foam insulation will increase cost.
To give you an idea of the different costs for supplies, we have provided a table below. Please note that the cost range is based on the quality and amount of material used for your hip to gable loft conversion.
For instance, if you plan to build a 40-square metre loft using high-quality materials like hardwood flooring, the cost per square metre would be around £60.00.
| Materials | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Scaffolding | £131 per m2 |
| Structural beams, joists and masonry | £1,500 to £4,000 |
| Insulation | £5 to £90 per m2 |
| Windows | £160 to £2,000 per window |
| Flooring | £7 to £60 per m2 |
| Staircase | £350 to £9,500 |
| Internal doors | £30 to £180 per door |
| Electrics | £500 to £1000 |
| Bathroom | £4,500 to £6,000 |
| Decorating materials | £800 to £1,600 |
Prices for structural beams, joists, and masonry: These are essential components for creating a structurally sound loft. They provide support for walls, ceilings, and floors. The price for these components in your loft relies on two main factors.
Firstly, the amount of material required for your hip-to-gable loft conversion. Some attics only require minor replacements, while others may need entire replacements due to damage caused by moisture or mould.
Secondly, the quality of materials used. Joists and beams can be made of either steel or timber, with steel being the more durable option. However, timber is a flexible and budget-friendly material for tricky loft spaces.
Concrete bricks are highly recommended for loft conversions as they have the best weight-bearing capacity. The average price per block for a 215mm thick hollow heavy block costs between £3 and £5.
Loft staircase: There are several building requirements that your current pull-down attic ladder does not meet for your loft staircase. These requirements include head height, width, fire safety, location, and step height. If you do not already have a loft staircase, you must budget for one.
You can choose from various loft staircases, such as straight stairs, which are the most common and relatively cheaper, or spiral staircases, which are space-saving and aesthetically pleasing but come with a high price tag.
When considering staircases, you should also factor in additional features such as handrails or carpentry, which will affect the hip to gable loft conversion cost. The design complexity and materials used will also impact the price.
Electrics: Power must be provided to your new space to complete the construction of your gable-end loft conversion. An electrician should assess your current home before any changes are made to determine its safety and ability to handle the additional demand for power sockets, fire alarms, downlights, and electrical showers.
If your wiring is not up to standard, you may need to rewire your entire home before completing your loft conversion. If you require your house to be rewired you will need to budget and expect changes in the hip to gable loft conversion cost.
The cost of rewiring can range from £4,800 for a two-bedroom home to £7730 for a four-bedroom home.
It's crucial to consider the costs 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.
Decorating materials: When planning your loft conversion, it is important to remember that the final finishes, such as decorating materials, should be considered last when budgeting for the project. Nonetheless, decorating materials are vital in creating a space that you are proud of.
The cost of decorating materials will depend on the quality you choose. If you want to give your new space a luxurious feel with high-end paint, wallpaper, and bespoke furniture, expect the overall increase to your hip to gable loft conversion cost.
However, there are ways to keep the decorating costs within budget. For instance, you can opt for basic finishes and reuse old furniture. Remember, simplicity does not mean boring.
Additional costs
Final hip to gable loft conversion costs will cover any additions you may require for the new space. These expenses may include installing light fixtures, adding radiators, replacing roof tiles, moving a water tank, painting the exterior of your home, and hiring an experienced structural engineer and architect for professional guidance.
| Additional factors | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Architect | £750 to £1,500 |
| Structural engineer | £750 to £2,000 |
| Moving the water tank | £400 to £1,000 |
| Replacing roof tiles | £150 to £400 |
| Radiator installation | £250 to £350 |
| Loft lighting | £80 to £150 |
| Painting exterior of the home | £3,500 to £4,000 |
| Skip hire (8 Yard) | £305 |
Architects are not a requirement for your hip-to-gable loft conversion project. However, it's highly recommended that you involve one at an early stage as the benefits outweigh the initial cost.
They can help you create a clear plan and identify potential space problems before the loft conversion work begins.
Additionally, they can offer advice on materials that align with your budget and personal preferences!
By factoring in the additional cost of hiring an architect into your budget, you can ensure that your hip-to-gable loft conversion stays within your financial means and delivers the desired results.
Structural engineers are an essential part of the loft conversion process. They offer expert knowledge and can identify any issues with your current loft space, such as structural problems, and ensure that the construction is up to code and compliant with standards.
In the long run, hiring a structural engineer can save you money and stress during your hip to gable conversion.
Moreover, if your home requires planning permits, a structural engineer can assist with the application process and help design and review the structural elements of your property.
Moving a water tank may be necessary if you want to make the most out of your loft space.
In the UK, more than half of homes still have water tanks in their attics, which can be inconveniently placed at the centre of the space, making it challenging to convert your loft.
To maximise space, consider relocating your water tank to one of the sides of your loft, especially if you're planning a gable end loft conversion.
Damaged roof tiles can cause trouble in your newly converted loft. They can lead to leaks, causing water damage and exposing you to the elements.
Therefore, it is essential to inspect your roof regularly to check if any tiles need to be replaced. Signs of roof tile damage include the presence of moss or algae, loose slates or curling shingles.
Over time, your roof may also reach the end of its life span, and you may need to replace either a few tiles or the entire roof. So, keep this in mind and take necessary actions to avoid any potential damage.
Other costs
- Building Inspections: A building inspection is necessary before construction can begin. Building surveyors will inspect the structure and integrity of your home and your neighbourhood. The cost of inspection typically ranges between £500 to £900, depending on the complexity and size of your loft conversion.
- Party Wall Award: The Party Wall Act 1996 prevents disputes between neighbours who share a wall or adjoining buildings and ensures that the structural integrity of the shared wall is retained. A party wall award will cost around £1575 per wall for your loft conversion.
- Bat Survey: If you suspect that bats are living in your loft, you must arrange a bat survey on your property. Bats are a protected species in the UK, and any harm caused to them or their habitat is considered a crime. You can arrange a bat survey through either the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environment Management directory or the Environmental Data Services directory, as recommended by GOV.UK, which typically costs around £500. If bats are found to be present on your property, a second bat survey is required, which may cost over £1,000, depending on the number of bats living within your loft.
Looking for the best gable-end conversion deal? WhatCost UK has you covered! Our network of specialists offer up to 3 free, home-tailored quotes at competitive prices. Simply fill out our 30-second form, and we’ll take care of the rest. Click to get started!
- Describe your needs
- Get free quotes
- Choose the best offer
Hip to gable conversion cost with optional additions
A hip to gable loft conversion offers so much potential for your home. It can transform a once underutilised dim attic into a functional loft room.
However, it's important to remember that this type of conversion has some limitations regarding available space. The interior slope of the roof can significantly reduce the usable floor and headspace in your new room.
If you are looking to add further space to your gable end conversion then there are other types of conversions that you can add to your hip to gable loft conversion.
While your hip to gable loft conversion cost may increase, these added features will provide you with more space and flexibility to create the room of your dreams.
We have broken down the costs and types of conversions you can add to your hip to gable loft below:
| Home type | Cost to add a dormer |
|---|---|
| End-of-Terrace | £2,000 to £7,000 |
| Semi-Detached | £10,000 to £30,000 |
| Detached | £40,000 to £60,000 |
| Home type | Mansard conversion cost |
|---|---|
| End-of-Terrace | £50,000 to £55,000 |
| Semi-Detached | £55,000 to £65,000 |
| Detached | £65,000 to £75,000 |
| Home type | Double hip to gable conversion cost |
|---|---|
| End-of-Terrace | Not Applicable |
| Semi-Detached | Not Applicable |
| Detached | £90,000 to £100,000 |
How to reduce the hip to gable loft conversion cost
There are several ways to reduce the cost of your hip-to-gable loft conversion. You can save a considerable amount of money by setting a budget, understanding the materials you'll be using, consulting with professionals like an architect, and doing some DIY work like painting.
Here are some cost-saving tips to consider before starting your project:
- Set a realistic budget: Understanding how much money you're willing to spend on your loft conversion is crucial to any conversion project. Doing this, you can avoid unexpected costs and financial surprises as the project progresses. A well-planned budget can help you save money and ensure the project is completed successfully.
- Plan for unexpected costs: Sometimes, a loft conversion process may be more complex than expected, and unexpected problems may arise, such as structural issues with your home or supply chain problems. To prepare for such situations, allocating a contingency fund within your budget is recommended. 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're planning a loft conversion on a tight budget, opt for basic finishes and cheaper materials, such as softwood for your staircase, and simple designs. This will help you keep the loft conversion cost down. However, keeping things simple doesn't mean your loft must look dull. With the assistance of an architect, you can still achieve an aesthetically pleasing look while staying within your budget. They can guide you in selecting the right design elements to enhance the look and feel of your loft conversion.
- Hire an architect: Local architects will work within your budget and set realistic goals for your gable end loft conversion. They will consider your budget and set realistic goals for your project. The architect will design a solution that meets your needs, plan the materials, and obtain the necessary permits. Moreover, they can leverage their expertise in the industry to help you find qualified, affordable, and trustworthy tradespeople.
- Do it yourself: If you have some basic DIY skills, you can use them to reduce the cost. You can contribute by doing tasks such as painting, decorating, or even minor carpentry work.
How to finance a hip to gable conversion
Financing for a hip-to-gable loft conversion is an important aspect to consider. Understanding the available financing options can give you the freedom to choose and take control during your loft conversion.
Here are some financing options that you can explore with confidence:
- Personal savings: If you have enough saved up, using your savings is a straightforward option. However, it's essential to ensure that you have enough set aside for any unexpected expenses that may arise during the conversion process.
- Secured loans: Banks often offer home improvement secured loans with lower interest rates than personal loans. With secured loans, you use your home as collateral, resulting in lower rates for bigger loans. But you must make repayments to avoid losing your home.
- Unsecured loans: These loans don't require any of your assets to be offered as security. Unsecured loans tend to be smaller than secured loans, but they are a popular choice as they are quick to process and lack the insecurity of potentially losing your home. However, getting this loan type accepted may be more challenging if you have bad credit or work for yourself.
- Remortgaging: Remortgaging can be a viable option if you have at least 20% equity in your property. By refinancing your mortgage, you can release funds to finance your loft conversion while potentially benefiting from lower interest rates. However, it's 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.
With careful consideration and planning, you can confidently select the financing option that best suits your needs.
Compare hip to gable loft conversion quotes
Gathering loft conversion quotes from reliable contractors is essential if you're planning a hip to gable conversion. Before making a decision, you should clearly understand the costs and details involved in the project. This will help you choose the best company for your needs while ensuring you receive a fair price.
We recommend obtaining at least four quotes to ensure you have an accurate idea of the average costs in your area. However, remember that price should not be the only factor in your decision.
It's crucial to consider each contractor's reputation, experience, and credentials. Make sure to compare quotations carefully, ensure they are like-for-like, and examine what each contractor provides for the price
The best contractors for your hip to gable conversion may only sometimes be the cheapest, but they will be worth the investment in the long run.
Our online service helps you get quotes from reputable contractors in your area, reducing hip to gable loft conversion costs.
Looking for the best gable-end conversion deal? WhatCost UK has you covered! Our network of specialists offer up to 3 free, home-tailored quotes at competitive prices. Simply fill out our 30-second form, and we’ll take care of the rest. Click to get started!
- Describe your needs
- Get free quotes
- Choose the best offer
FAQ