What is a bungalow loft conversion?

A bungalow loft conversion uses the large roof space of a bungalow to add bedrooms and a bathroom, turning it into a chalet bungalow. Dormers at the front, rear or both create headroom; some projects raise the roof entirely.
How much does a bungalow loft conversion cost in Portsmouth?
In Portsmouth, a bungalow loft conversion typically costs £50,500–£89,500 for a typical bungalow conversion with dormers, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the South East run about 12% above the UK average, and the figures for Portsmouth are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical bungalow conversion with dormers | £50,500–£89,500 |
| Higher specification | £89,500–£112,000 |
What moves the price most:
- Whether the roof is raised
- Number and size of dormers
- Staircase position within the bungalow
- Bathrooms
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a bungalow loft conversion in Portsmouth?
Before anything is built in Portsmouth, we confirm which approvals apply in England. In England rear dormers on a bungalow are often permitted development within the 50 cubic metre volume limit. Front dormers, roof raises and conservation-area work need planning permission.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Drawings and structural calculations
- New floor structure and staircase
- Survey and planning check
- Building control sign-off
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Dormers or a raised roof
How long does it take?
Allow 8 to 14 weeks on site. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Portsmouth
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
Projects in Portsmouth (PO5) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about bungalow loft conversions in Portsmouth
Will the bungalow still be valued as a bungalow?
It becomes a chalet bungalow. Whether that adds value depends on local demand.
Can every bungalow have a loft conversion?
Most can, but low-pitched roofs may need dormers or a roof raise to give enough head height. We check the structure at the survey.
Who approves a bungalow loft conversion in Portsmouth?
Planning matters in Portsmouth go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How much does a bungalow loft conversion cost in Portsmouth?
In Portsmouth, a bungalow loft conversion typically costs £50,500–£89,500 for a typical bungalow conversion with dormers, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does it take?
Around 8 to 14 weeks on site depending on the scope.
