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 Ely?
In Ely, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £58,500–£82,500 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the East of England, where labour and materials are typically about 6% above average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A hip-to-gable with rear dormer | £58,500–£82,500 |
| Higher specification | £82,500–£103,000 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Gable wall construction and finish
- Size of the rear dormer
- Roof tile matching
- Scaffolding to three sides
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Ely?
Approvals for a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Ely 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Survey and planning check
- Building control sign-off
- Gable wall built in brick or block and finished to match
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 7 to 10 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Ely
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
We work across Ely and neighbouring areas such as Newmarket, March and Cambridge. Postcodes we cover in Ely include CB7.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about hip-to-gable loft conversions in Ely
Who approves a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Ely?
Planning matters in Ely 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 conversion permitted development?
Often yes in England, within the 50 cubic metre roof volume limit for semi-detached and detached houses. It is not permitted development in conservation areas or where rights have been removed.
Can the gable be brick?
Yes. We match the existing finish, whether brick, render or pebbledash.
How long does it take?
Typically 7 to 10 weeks on site.
How much does a hip-to-gable loft conversion cost in Ely?
In Ely, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £58,500–£82,500 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
