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 Dulwich?
In Dulwich, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £71,500–£101,500 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Dulwich reflects typical costs in London, roughly 30% above the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A hip-to-gable with rear dormer | £71,500–£101,500 |
| Higher specification | £101,500–£127,000 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Gable wall construction and finish
- Size of the rear dormer
- Scaffolding to three sides
- Staircase design
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 Dulwich?
Approvals for a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Dulwich follow the rules for England. In England a hip-to-gable conversion is often permitted development within the 50 cubic metre roof volume limit for semi-detached and detached houses, provided the gable does not face a road and the house is not in a conservation area.
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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Gable wall built in brick or block and finished to match
- Roof extension and rear dormer
- Steel beams and floor joists
- Survey and planning check
How long does it take?
Allow 7 to 10 weeks on site. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 6 to 12 weeks, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Dulwich
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
If your home is in Dulwich or close by in Brixton, Peckham and Forest Hill, a free home visit is the first step.
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
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about hip-to-gable loft conversions in Dulwich
How much does a hip-to-gable loft conversion cost in Dulwich?
In Dulwich, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £71,500–£101,500 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Will it look strange next to my neighbour?
On a pair of semis the roofs will no longer match unless your neighbour does the same. Many streets already have several converted roofs.
How long does it take?
Typically 7 to 10 weeks on site.
Who approves a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Dulwich?
Planning matters in Dulwich go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
