If your home isn’t meeting your needs space-wise, a hip to gable loft conversion is a great way to extend it. This type of home renovation is usually quicker and more cost-effective than building an extension and, done right, can add value to your property.
A hip to gable loft conversion replaces the sloping 'hip' end of the roof with a vertical wall, known as a gable. This extends your attic and creates head height so you can convert it into useful living space.
Hip to gable loft conversions are suitable for detached or semi-detached homes, bungalows and end-terrace homes but not mid-terraces. They’re also a good option to supersize a previous rooflight conversion or combine with a rear dormer to gain even more space.
Hip to gable loft conversion costs vary depending on several factors, the most important being the amount of structural work involved. It’s a more complex extension than just adding rooflights or dormers as you have to build an entirely new wall and part of the roof. Non-standard specifications, like combining hip to gable with a dormer, will also up the cost.
How you plan to use the space is important too. A bedroom with en-suite bathroom is a popular choice for a loft conversion but involves more work to install plumbing and sanitaryware than a bedroom alone.
Other factors that influence cost include the type and quality of insulation and whether you’re installing double or triple glazing.
All that said, you should budget for anything from £40,000 to £75,000 for a straightforward hip to gable conversion.
The timing will also depend on the above factors. Think 8 to 12 weeks for a standard hip to gable loft conversion, assuming no delays.
All loft conversions are slightly different, but generally involve the following stages:
Under Permitted Development Rights (PDRs), you can usually do a hip to gable loft conversion without applying for planning permission. The only exception is if it's on the front of the house.
PDRs do come with some restrictions, though. For example, you can’t extend the original space by more than 50 m2 (40 m2 for terraced houses) and must use materials in keeping with the original structure. You also can’t raise the roof above the existing height or include features like balconies.
As always, if you live in a listed building or conservation area, you may still need to apply for planning permission.
Your loft conversion will need to pass building regulations inspection to make sure it's safe and legal. However, you can save yourself the fees by hiring a contractor registered under the Competent Person Scheme as they can self-certify the work.
The best part of planning a home renovation is working out how to use all that extra space. Tucked away at the top of the house, a loft is a great location for a tranquil master bedroom, home office or guest suite. Or you could turn it into a teenager’s bedroom, a games room or playroom (which will also give the whole family a bit of headspace). Or, while it’s less common, we’ve even seen lofts turned into beautiful main bathrooms or kitchens. To maximise the value you add to your property, I’d always recommend going for more bedrooms or bathrooms whenever possible, especially if you only have one of the latter.
Whatever you do with the space, don’t forget to think about light and storage. Attic corners can be gloomy and underused but you can fix this with cleverly positioned spotlights or cupboards that take advantage of those tight spots where the roof meets the floor.