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 Maidenhead?
In Maidenhead, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £73,000–£106,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the South East, where labour and materials are typically about 12% above 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 |
What moves the price most:
- Party wall surveyor fees
- Front, rear or both
- Bathrooms and finishes
- Number of dormers and lead work
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 Maidenhead?
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
What we take care of:
- Dormer windows
- Planning drawings and application
- Structural design and calculations
- Party wall notices to both neighbours
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Building control sign-off
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 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 Maidenhead
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
Maidenhead sits in Berkshire, about 12 miles north-east of Reading. We cover the whole of Maidenhead, including postcodes SL6.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 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 Maidenhead
Can I stay at home?
Usually. The new roof is built under a temporary cover so the house stays dry.
How long does a mansard loft conversion take in Maidenhead?
Typically 9 to 12 weeks on site, after planning approval. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
How much does a mansard loft conversion cost in Maidenhead?
In Maidenhead, 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.
Does a mansard need planning permission?
Almost always, because it changes the roof shape. Councils assess it against local design guidance.
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.
