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 Harrow?
In Harrow, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £84,500–£123,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for London, where labour and materials are typically about 30% above 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Bathrooms and finishes
- Scaffolding on busy streets
- Number of dormers and lead work
- Roof covering: natural slate costs more
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a mansard loft conversion in Harrow?
Before anything is built in Harrow, 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.
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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Structural design and calculations
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Dormer windows
- Planning drawings and application
- Building control sign-off
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Harrow
Many London boroughs have conservation areas and detailed design guides, so early design advice saves time at the planning stage.
We work across Harrow and neighbouring areas such as Wembley, Pinner and Northolt. Postcodes we cover in Harrow include HA2.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 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 Harrow
How long does it take?
Around 9 to 12 weeks on site, plus 2 to 3 months for planning and party wall matters beforehand.
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.
Do I need party wall agreements?
Yes, mansards on terraced houses almost always involve both party walls.
Who approves a mansard loft conversion in Harrow?
Planning matters in Harrow 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 Harrow?
In Harrow, 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.
