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 Swansea?
In Swansea, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £50,500–£72,000 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for Wales, where labour and materials are typically about 8% below average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A hip-to-gable with rear dormer | £50,500–£72,000 |
| Higher specification | £72,000–£90,000 |
What moves the price most:
- Scaffolding to three sides
- Bathroom and plumbing
- 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 Swansea?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location in Wales. In Wales a hip-to-gable conversion may be permitted development within roof volume limits; corner plots and conservation areas usually need permission.
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies in Wales, so notices must be served before work on a shared wall, on the boundary, or excavation close to a neighbour’s foundations.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Steel beams and floor joists
- Survey and planning check
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Gable wall built in brick or block and finished to match
- Building control sign-off
- Roof extension and rear dormer
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 Swansea
Wales has many terraced valley streets, stone cottages and post-war estates, so extension designs are shaped by slopes, materials and local character.
We work across Swansea and neighbouring areas such as Clydach, Gorseinon and Neath. Postcodes we cover in Swansea include SA1.
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
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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about hip-to-gable loft conversions in Swansea
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 much does a hip-to-gable loft conversion cost in Swansea?
In Swansea, a hip-to-gable loft conversion typically costs £50,500–£72,000 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Will I need building regulations approval?
Yes. All loft conversions to habitable rooms need building control approval for structure, fire safety, insulation and stairs.
Can the gable be brick?
Yes. We match the existing finish, whether brick, render or pebbledash.
Do I need planning permission for a hip-to-gable loft conversion in Swansea?
In Wales a hip-to-gable conversion may be permitted development within roof volume limits; corner plots and conservation areas usually need permission.
Do you build hip-to-gable loft conversions in Swansea?
Yes. We build hip-to-gable loft conversions across Swansea, including postcodes SA1. Every project starts with a free home visit.
