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 Welling?
In Welling, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £62,500–£88,500 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). That range is adjusted for London, where domestic building work typically costs around 30% above the national average. 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:
- Staircase position
- En-suite or bathroom
- Dormer size and roof structure
- Scaffolding and access
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 Welling?
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
What we take care of:
- New staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Insulation, plastering, electrics and plumbing
- Measured survey and head-height check
- Building control completion certificate
- Steel beams and new floor joists
- Drawings and structural calculations
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 Welling
Space is at a premium in London, so homeowners often build out into the side return or up into the roof rather than move.
We work across Welling and neighbouring areas such as Bexleyheath, Sidcup and Eltham. Postcodes we cover in Welling include DA16.
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
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 Welling
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 you build dormer loft conversions in Welling?
Yes. We build dormer loft conversions across Welling, including postcodes DA16. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How long does it take?
Usually 6 to 9 weeks on site.
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.
How much does a dormer loft conversion cost in Welling?
In Welling, 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.
