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 Greater Manchester?
In Greater Manchester, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £61,000–£89,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Greater Manchester reflects typical costs in the North West, roughly 6% below the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rear mansard | £61,000–£89,500 |
| Higher specification | £89,500–£112,000 |
What moves the price most:
- Scaffolding on busy streets
- Party wall surveyor fees
- 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 Greater Manchester?
Before anything is built in Greater Manchester, 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.
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:
- Dormer windows
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Building control sign-off
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Structural design and calculations
- New roof structure, slate or tile covering and lead work
How long does it take?
Allow 9 to 12 weeks on site, after planning approval. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Greater Manchester
Terraced streets across the North West often suit rear dormers and single-storey kitchen extensions.
Towns we cover in Greater Manchester include Manchester, Oldham, Wigan, Bolton, Stockport and Salford.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 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 Greater Manchester
Who approves a mansard loft conversion in Greater Manchester?
Planning matters in Greater Manchester go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How much does a mansard loft conversion cost in Greater Manchester?
In Greater Manchester, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £61,000–£89,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does it take?
Around 9 to 12 weeks on site, plus 2 to 3 months for planning and party wall matters beforehand.
Can I stay at home?
Usually. The new roof is built under a temporary cover so the house stays dry.
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.