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 Hendon?
In Hendon, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £62,500–£88,500 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in London run about 30% above the UK average, and the figures for Hendon 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 | £62,500–£88,500 |
| Higher specification | £88,500–£110,500 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Scaffolding and access
- Built-in storage and finishes
- Fire safety upgrades to the existing house
- 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 Hendon?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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.
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:
- New staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Steel beams and new floor joists
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Insulation, plastering, electrics and plumbing
- Building control completion certificate
- 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 Hendon
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
We work across Hendon and neighbouring areas such as Finchley, Mill Hill and Golders Green. Postcodes we cover in Hendon include NW4.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 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 Hendon
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.
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.
Do you build dormer loft conversions in Hendon?
Yes. We build dormer loft conversions across Hendon, including postcodes NW4. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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.
How much does a dormer loft conversion cost in Hendon?
In Hendon, 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.
