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 Wigston Magna?
In Wigston Magna, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £45,500–£64,500 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). That range is adjusted for the East Midlands, where domestic building work typically costs around 5% below the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rear dormer with en-suite | £45,500–£64,500 |
| Higher specification | £64,500–£80,500 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Built-in storage and finishes
- Staircase position
- Fire safety upgrades to the existing house
- Dormer size and roof structure
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a dormer loft conversion in Wigston Magna?
Approvals for a dormer loft conversion in Wigston Magna follow the rules for 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.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
On a typical dormer loft conversion we handle:
- Building control completion certificate
- Party wall notices for shared walls
- Measured survey and head-height check
- Steel beams and new floor joists
- New staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Dormer structure, roof covering and windows
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 6 to 9 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Wigston Magna
The East Midlands has a mix of red-brick terraces, inter-war semis and newer estates, so rear extensions and garage conversions are common projects.
Wigston Magna sits in Leicestershire, about 4 miles south-east of Leicester. We cover the whole of Wigston Magna, including postcodes LE2 and LE18.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about dormer loft conversions in Wigston Magna
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 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.
How much does a dormer loft conversion cost in Wigston Magna?
In Wigston Magna, a dormer loft conversion typically costs £45,500–£64,500 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does a dormer loft conversion take in Wigston Magna?
Typically 6 to 9 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
