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 Craigavon?
In Craigavon, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £41,500–£58,500 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). That range is adjusted for Northern Ireland, where domestic building work typically costs around 14% below the national average. 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 |
What moves the price most:
- En-suite or bathroom
- Built-in storage and finishes
- Scaffolding and access
- Dormer size and roof structure
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a dormer loft conversion in Craigavon?
Before anything is built in Craigavon, we confirm which approvals apply in 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.
In Northern Ireland building control approval comes from the council, usually through a full plans application or a building notice, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
Handled as part of most dormer loft conversions:
- Measured survey and head-height check
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Building control completion certificate
- Insulation, plastering, electrics and plumbing
- Dormer structure, roof covering and windows
How long does it take?
Allow 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 Craigavon
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
From BT62 outwards, we take on projects throughout Craigavon and the surrounding parts of County Armagh.
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 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 Craigavon
How long does a dormer loft conversion take in Craigavon?
Typically 6 to 9 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
How much does a dormer loft conversion cost in Craigavon?
In Craigavon, 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.
Do I need planning permission for a dormer loft conversion in Craigavon?
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 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.
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.
