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 Cambridge?
In Cambridge, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £69,000–£100,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). That range is adjusted for the East of England, where domestic building work typically costs around 6% above the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rear mansard | £69,000–£100,500 |
| Higher specification | £100,500–£125,500 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Front, rear or both
- Bathrooms and finishes
- Party wall surveyor fees
- Scaffolding on busy streets
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 Cambridge?
The approval route for Cambridge is set by planning law 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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
Handled as part of most mansard loft conversions:
- Structural design and calculations
- Building control sign-off
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Dormer windows
- New roof structure, slate or tile covering and lead work
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
How long does it take?
Allow 9 to 12 weeks on site, after planning approval. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Cambridge
Many towns in the East of England have estates built since the 1970s, where garage conversions and rear extensions are popular.
Projects in Cambridge (CB5, CB21, CB22 and CB23) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
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
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about mansard loft conversions in Cambridge
Do I need party wall agreements?
Yes, mansards on terraced houses almost always involve both party walls.
What roof covering is used?
Natural slate is traditional; some councils accept other materials. We follow local guidance.
How much does a mansard loft conversion cost in Cambridge?
In Cambridge, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £69,000–£100,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you build mansard loft conversions in Cambridge?
Yes. We build mansard loft conversions across Cambridge, including postcodes CB5, CB21, CB22 and CB23. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Can I stay at home?
Usually. The new roof is built under a temporary cover so the house stays dry.