What is a dormer loft conversion?

A dormer loft conversion adds a box-shaped structure to the rear roof slope, creating vertical walls and full headroom across most of the new room. It is the most common loft conversion in the UK because it works on terraced, semi-detached and detached houses.
How much does a dormer loft conversion cost in Burntwood?
In Burntwood, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £46,500–£66,000 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices in the West Midlands sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Burntwood reflects that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rear dormer with en-suite | £46,500–£66,000 |
| Higher specification | £66,000–£82,500 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Fire safety upgrades to the existing house
- En-suite or bathroom
- Dormer size and roof structure
- Staircase position
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 dormer loft conversion in Burntwood?
The approval route for Burntwood is set by planning law in England. In England a rear dormer is often permitted development if the extra roof volume is no more than 40 cubic metres on a terraced house or 50 on other houses, it does not face the road, sits no higher than the ridge and is set back from the eaves, with matching materials and obscure-glazed side windows. Balconies, front dormers and work in conservation areas need planning permission.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Party wall notices for shared walls
- Insulation, plastering, electrics and plumbing
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Building control completion certificate
- Measured survey and head-height check
- Steel beams and new floor joists
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 6 to 9 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Burntwood
The West Midlands has large numbers of 1930s semis and Victorian terraces, which suit rear extensions, side extensions and dormer loft conversions.
If your home is in Burntwood or close by in Great Wyrley, Lichfield and Cannock, a free home visit is the first step.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about dormer loft conversions in Burntwood
Will I need to move out?
No. Most of the work is done from scaffolding and the roof. The new staircase is formed near the end, which causes a few days of disruption.
What fire safety is required?
Building regulations require a safe escape route. Converting a two-storey house to three storeys usually means a protected stairway with fire doors to habitable rooms and mains-wired smoke alarms.
How much does a dormer loft conversion cost in Burntwood?
In Burntwood, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £46,500–£66,000 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do I need a party wall agreement?
In England and Wales, if the conversion cuts into or builds on a shared wall, notices must be served under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
Who approves a dormer loft conversion in Burntwood?
Planning matters in Burntwood go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
