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 Corby?
In Corby, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £62,000–£90,000 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the East Midlands, where labour and materials are typically about 5% below average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rear mansard | £62,000–£90,000 |
| Higher specification | £90,000–£112,500 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Scaffolding on busy streets
- Roof covering: natural slate costs more
- Front, rear or both
- Bathrooms and finishes
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 Corby?
Approvals for a mansard loft conversion in Corby follow the rules for 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.
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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
The work we manage on a mansard loft conversion:
- Planning drawings and application
- Dormer windows
- New roof structure, slate or tile covering and lead work
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Building control sign-off
- Party wall notices to both neighbours
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 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 Corby
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.
We work across Corby and neighbouring areas such as Kettering, Market Harborough and Oakham. Postcodes we cover in Corby include NN17.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 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 mansard loft conversions in Corby
Why choose a mansard over a dormer?
A mansard gives more usable floor space and a neater appearance from the street, but costs more and needs planning permission.
Does a mansard need planning permission?
Almost always, because it changes the roof shape. Councils assess it against local design guidance.
How much does a mansard loft conversion cost in Corby?
In Corby, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £62,000–£90,000 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does a mansard loft conversion take in Corby?
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.
