What is a hip-to-gable loft conversion?
A hip-to-gable loft conversion replaces the sloping side (the hip) of a semi-detached or detached roof with a vertical gable wall. This extends the ridge and creates enough space for a staircase and a full-size room, usually combined with a rear dormer.
How much does a hip-to-gable loft conversion cost in Antrim?
In Antrim, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £47,500–£67,000 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices across Northern Ireland are typically 14% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Antrim. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A hip-to-gable with rear dormer | £47,500–£67,000 |
| Higher specification | £67,000–£84,000 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Roof tile matching
- Staircase design
- Scaffolding to three sides
- Size of the rear dormer
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 hip-to-gable loft conversion in Antrim?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland roof enlargements must be set back from the verges to be permitted development, so a hip-to-gable conversion usually needs planning permission.
Northern Ireland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls relies on agreement with the neighbour and common law, so we agree the arrangements in writing 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 hip-to-gable loft conversion we handle:
- Gable wall built in brick or block and finished to match
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Steel beams and floor joists
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Roof extension and rear dormer
- Building control sign-off
How long does it take?
Allow 7 to 10 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Antrim
Across Northern Ireland, bungalows and chalet bungalows are common, so loft conversions and rear extensions are popular projects.
We work across Antrim and neighbouring areas such as Ballymena, Newtownabbey and Belfast. Postcodes we cover in Antrim include BT41.
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
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about hip-to-gable loft conversions in Antrim
Can the gable be brick?
Yes. We match the existing finish, whether brick, render or pebbledash.
Do I need planning permission for a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Antrim?
In Northern Ireland roof enlargements must be set back from the verges to be permitted development, so a hip-to-gable conversion usually needs planning permission.
Will I need building regulations approval?
Yes. All loft conversions to habitable rooms need building control approval for structure, fire safety, insulation and stairs.
How much does a hip-to-gable loft conversion cost in Antrim?
In Antrim, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £47,500–£67,000 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Is a hip-to-gable better than a dormer?
On a hipped roof, a dormer alone often leaves too little space for stairs. Combining hip-to-gable with a rear dormer gives the most room.
Who approves a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Antrim?
Planning matters in Antrim go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.