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 Melton Mowbray?
In Melton Mowbray, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £52,000–£74,000 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Melton Mowbray reflects typical costs in the East Midlands, roughly 5% below the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A hip-to-gable with rear dormer | £52,000–£74,000 |
| Higher specification | £74,000–£92,500 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Size of the rear dormer
- Scaffolding to three sides
- Bathroom and plumbing
- Staircase design
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 Melton Mowbray?
The approval route for Melton Mowbray 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.
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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Gable wall built in brick or block and finished to match
- Survey and planning check
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Building control sign-off
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 Melton Mowbray
The East Midlands has a mix of red-brick terraces, inter-war semis and newer estates, so rear extensions and garage conversions are common projects.
Melton Mowbray sits in Leicestershire, about 14 miles north-east of Leicester. We cover the whole of Melton Mowbray, including postcodes LE13.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about hip-to-gable loft conversions in Melton Mowbray
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 Melton Mowbray?
In Melton Mowbray, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £52,000–£74,000 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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.
Who approves a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Melton Mowbray?
Planning matters in Melton Mowbray go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
