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 Exeter?
In Exeter, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £56,000–£79,500 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the South West are close to the UK average, so the figures for Exeter are close to our national guide. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A hip-to-gable with rear dormer | £56,000–£79,500 |
| Higher specification | £79,500–£99,500 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Bathroom and plumbing
- 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 Exeter?
Here is how the rules work for a hip-to-gable loft conversion in 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.
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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Roof extension and rear dormer
- Steel beams and floor joists
- Survey and planning check
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Gable wall built in brick or block and finished to match
How long does it take?
Expect 7 to 10 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Exeter
The South West mixes stone and render cottages with post-war and newer estates, and local materials matter more here when matching an extension.
Our Exeter coverage includes postcode districts EX2, and we also work in nearby places such as Heavitree, Exmouth and Tiverton.
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
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 hip-to-gable loft conversions in Exeter
Can the gable be brick?
Yes. We match the existing finish, whether brick, render or pebbledash.
Who approves a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Exeter?
Planning matters in Exeter go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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 long does it take?
Typically 7 to 10 weeks on site.
How much does a hip-to-gable loft conversion cost in Exeter?
In Exeter, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £56,000–£79,500 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.