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 Farnham?
In Farnham, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £73,000–£106,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). That range is adjusted for the South East, where domestic building work typically costs around 12% above the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rear mansard | £73,000–£106,500 |
| Higher specification | £106,500–£133,000 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Scaffolding on busy streets
- Party wall surveyor fees
- Roof covering: natural slate costs more
- Number of dormers and lead work
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a mansard loft conversion in Farnham?
Here is how the rules work for a mansard loft conversion 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.
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
- Party wall notices to both neighbours
- New roof structure, slate or tile covering and lead work
- Building control sign-off
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Structural design and calculations
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 Farnham
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
Our Farnham coverage includes postcode districts GU9, and we also work in nearby places such as Aldershot, Fleet and Farnborough.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about mansard loft conversions in Farnham
How long does it take?
Around 9 to 12 weeks on site, plus 2 to 3 months for planning and party wall matters beforehand.
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 Farnham?
In Farnham, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £73,000–£106,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Who approves a mansard loft conversion in Farnham?
Planning matters in Farnham go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
What roof covering is used?
Natural slate is traditional; some councils accept other materials. We follow local guidance.
