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 Great Malvern?
In Great Malvern, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £53,500–£75,500 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices in the West Midlands sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Great Malvern reflects that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A hip-to-gable with rear dormer | £53,500–£75,500 |
| Higher specification | £75,500–£94,500 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Bathroom and plumbing
- Scaffolding to three sides
- Staircase design
- Size of the rear dormer
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Great Malvern?
The approval route for Great Malvern is set by planning law 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.
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
Handled as part of most hip-to-gable loft conversions:
- Gable wall built in brick or block and finished to match
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Survey and planning check
- Building control sign-off
- Roof extension and rear dormer
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 7 to 10 weeks on site. Design and approvals come first and typically take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the approval route.
Building in Great Malvern
Across the West Midlands, inter-war and post-war semis make up much of the housing, giving good scope for two-storey side extensions and hip-to-gable lofts.
Great Malvern sits in Worcestershire, about 7 miles south-west of Worcester. We cover the whole of Great Malvern, including postcodes WR14.
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 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 Great Malvern
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.
Who approves a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Great Malvern?
Planning matters in Great Malvern 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.
How long does it take?
Typically 7 to 10 weeks on site.
How much does a hip-to-gable loft conversion cost in Great Malvern?
In Great Malvern, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £53,500–£75,500 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
