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 Greater Manchester?
In Greater Manchester, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £51,500–£73,500 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the North West run about 6% below the UK average, and the figures for Greater Manchester are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A hip-to-gable with rear dormer | £51,500–£73,500 |
| Higher specification | £73,500–£92,000 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Staircase design
- Scaffolding to three sides
- Gable wall construction and finish
- Roof tile matching
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 Greater Manchester?
The approval route for Greater Manchester 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
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Roof extension and rear dormer
- Steel beams and floor joists
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Survey and planning check
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Gable wall built in brick or block and finished to match
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 Greater Manchester
Terraced streets across the North West often suit rear dormers and single-storey kitchen extensions.
Towns we cover in Greater Manchester include Manchester, Oldham, Wigan, Bolton, Stockport and Salford.
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 in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 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 Greater Manchester
Can the gable be brick?
Yes. We match the existing finish, whether brick, render or pebbledash.
How long does a hip-to-gable loft conversion take in Greater Manchester?
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.
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 much does a hip-to-gable loft conversion cost in Greater Manchester?
In Greater Manchester, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £51,500–£73,500 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.