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 Chiswick?
In Chiswick, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £62,500–£88,500 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices across London are typically 30% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Chiswick. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rear dormer with en-suite | £62,500–£88,500 |
| Higher specification | £88,500–£110,500 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Staircase position
- Fire safety upgrades to the existing house
- Dormer size and roof structure
- Built-in storage and finishes
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a dormer loft conversion in Chiswick?
Here is how the rules work for a dormer loft conversion 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.
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:
- Building control completion certificate
- Steel beams and new floor joists
- Measured survey and head-height check
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Party wall notices for shared walls
- Dormer structure, roof covering and windows
How long does it take?
Allow 6 to 9 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Chiswick
Many London boroughs have conservation areas and detailed design guides, so early design advice saves time at the planning stage.
We work across Chiswick and neighbouring areas such as Hammersmith, Acton and Barnes. Postcodes we cover in Chiswick include W4.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about dormer loft conversions in Chiswick
How much head height do I need?
Ideally at least 2.2 metres from the top of the ceiling joists to the underside of the ridge. Less can still work with a dormer, but we check this at the survey.
Do you build dormer loft conversions in Chiswick?
Yes. We build dormer loft conversions across Chiswick, including postcodes W4. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How long does it take?
Usually 6 to 9 weeks on site.
How much does a dormer loft conversion cost in Chiswick?
In Chiswick, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £62,500–£88,500 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Does a dormer loft conversion need planning permission?
A rear dormer is often permitted development in England, provided the extra roof volume is within 40 cubic metres on a terraced house or 50 on a semi-detached or detached house, and it does not face the road. Front dormers and houses in conservation areas usually need an application.
