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 Fareham?
In Fareham, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £54,000–£76,000 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Fareham reflects typical costs in the South East, roughly 12% above the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rear dormer with en-suite | £54,000–£76,000 |
| Higher specification | £76,000–£95,000 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Built-in storage and finishes
- En-suite or bathroom
- Scaffolding and access
- Fire safety upgrades to the existing house
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a dormer loft conversion in Fareham?
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.
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:
- New staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Dormer structure, roof covering and windows
- Measured survey and head-height check
- Party wall notices for shared walls
- Building control completion certificate
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 Fareham
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
If your home is in Fareham or close by in Gosport, Portsmouth and Southsea, a free home visit is the first step.
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 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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about dormer loft conversions in Fareham
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.
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.
How much does a dormer loft conversion cost in Fareham?
In Fareham, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £54,000–£76,000 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Who approves a dormer loft conversion in Fareham?
Planning matters in Fareham go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.