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 Kettering?
In Kettering, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £62,000–£90,000 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Kettering reflects typical costs in the East Midlands, roughly 5% below the UK-wide figure. 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 main things that change the cost:
- Number of dormers and lead work
- Front, rear or both
- Bathrooms and finishes
- Party wall surveyor fees
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a mansard loft conversion in Kettering?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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:
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Building control sign-off
- Dormer windows
- Structural design and calculations
- New roof structure, slate or tile covering and lead work
- Planning drawings and application
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 9 to 12 weeks on site, after planning approval. Design and approvals come first and typically take 3 to 4 months, depending on the approval route.
Building in Kettering
In the East Midlands, many estates built since the 1960s have integral garages that convert well into a study or bedroom.
From NN16 outwards, we take on projects throughout Kettering and the surrounding parts of Northamptonshire.
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
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about mansard loft conversions in Kettering
Who approves a mansard loft conversion in Kettering?
Planning matters in Kettering 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 Kettering?
In Kettering, 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.
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.
How long does it take?
Around 9 to 12 weeks on site, plus 2 to 3 months for planning and party wall matters beforehand.
