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 Gateshead?
In Gateshead, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £49,500–£70,000 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices across the North East are typically 10% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Gateshead. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A hip-to-gable with rear dormer | £49,500–£70,000 |
| Higher specification | £70,000–£87,500 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Gable wall construction and finish
- Size of the rear dormer
- Staircase design
- Bathroom and plumbing
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Gateshead?
Approvals for a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Gateshead 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.
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.
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:
- Steel beams and floor joists
- Roof extension and rear dormer
- Survey and planning check
- Gable wall built in brick or block and finished to match
- Building control sign-off
- Drawings and structural calculations
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 Gateshead
The North East has many terraced streets and post-war semis, where rear extensions and loft conversions are popular ways to gain space.
If your home is in Gateshead or close by in Newcastle upon Tyne, Wallsend and Hebburn, a free home visit is the first step.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 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 sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about hip-to-gable loft conversions in Gateshead
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.
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 Gateshead?
In Gateshead, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £49,500–£70,000 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does a hip-to-gable loft conversion take in Gateshead?
Typically 7 to 10 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
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.
