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 County Tyrone?
In County Tyrone, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £41,500–£58,500 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in Northern Ireland run about 14% below the UK average, and the figures for County Tyrone are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rear dormer with en-suite | £41,500–£58,500 |
| Higher specification | £58,500–£73,000 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- En-suite or bathroom
- Dormer size and roof structure
- Built-in storage and finishes
- Fire safety upgrades to the existing house
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 County Tyrone?
Approvals for a dormer loft conversion in County Tyrone follow the rules for Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland a rear dormer can be permitted development if it does not face a road, sits no higher than the ridge and is set back at least 0.5 metres from the ridge, eaves, party wall and verges. Roof enlargements are not permitted development in conservation areas.
Northern Ireland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls relies on agreement with the neighbour and common law, so we agree the arrangements in writing before work starts.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Steel beams and new floor joists
- Measured survey and head-height check
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- Building control completion certificate
- Dormer structure, roof covering and windows
- Insulation, plastering, electrics and plumbing
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 6 to 9 weeks on site. Design and approvals come first and typically take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the approval route.
Building in County Tyrone
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
Towns we cover in County Tyrone include Omagh, Strabane, Dungannon and Cookstown.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 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 County Tyrone
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 long does a dormer loft conversion take in County Tyrone?
Typically 6 to 9 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
Do I need planning permission for a dormer loft conversion in County Tyrone?
In Northern Ireland a rear dormer can be permitted development if it does not face a road, sits no higher than the ridge and is set back at least 0.5 metres from the ridge, eaves, party wall and verges. Roof enlargements are not permitted development in conservation areas.
How much does a dormer loft conversion cost in County Tyrone?
In County Tyrone, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £41,500–£58,500 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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.
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.
