What is a mansard loft conversion?

A mansard loft conversion rebuilds the roof with a nearly vertical slope (about 72 degrees) and a flat top, effectively adding a new storey. Small dormer windows sit within the steep slope. Mansards are common on period terraces in towns and cities.
How much does a mansard loft conversion cost in Blackheath?
In Blackheath, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £84,500–£123,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). That range is adjusted for London, where domestic building work typically costs around 30% above the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rear mansard | £84,500–£123,500 |
| Higher specification | £123,500–£154,500 |
What moves the price most:
- Scaffolding on busy streets
- Front, rear or both
- Roof covering: natural slate costs more
- Number of dormers and lead work
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a mansard loft conversion in Blackheath?
Before anything is built in Blackheath, we confirm which approvals apply in England. In England a mansard almost always needs planning permission because it changes the roof shape. Many councils publish design guidance for mansards on terraced streets, and some streets are more likely to be approved where neighbours already have one.
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
Handled as part of most mansard loft conversions:
- Party wall notices to both neighbours
- Building control sign-off
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Planning drawings and application
- Dormer windows
How long does it take?
Expect 9 to 12 weeks on site, after planning approval. Design and approvals come first and typically take 3 to 4 months, depending on the approval route.
Building in Blackheath
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
If your home is in Blackheath or close by in Greenwich, Catford and Eltham, a free home visit is the first step.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about mansard loft conversions in Blackheath
Does a mansard need planning permission?
Almost always, because it changes the roof shape. Councils assess it against local design guidance.
Can I stay at home?
Usually. The new roof is built under a temporary cover so the house stays dry.
How long does a mansard loft conversion take in Blackheath?
Typically 9 to 12 weeks on site, after planning approval. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
Do I need party wall agreements?
Yes, mansards on terraced houses almost always involve both party walls.
How much does a mansard loft conversion cost in Blackheath?
In Blackheath, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £84,500–£123,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
