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 Salford?
In Salford, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £61,000–£89,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the North West run about 6% below the UK average, and the figures for Salford are adjusted to reflect that. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Roof covering: natural slate costs more
- Scaffolding on busy streets
- Party wall surveyor fees
- Number of dormers and lead work
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 Salford?
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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
The work we manage on a mansard loft conversion:
- Structural design and calculations
- Party wall notices to both neighbours
- Dormer windows
- New roof structure, slate or tile covering and lead work
- Building control sign-off
- Planning drawings and application
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 Salford
Terraced streets across the North West often suit rear dormers and single-storey kitchen extensions.
Our Salford coverage includes postcode districts M5, M6 and M50, and we also work in nearby places such as Eccles, Manchester and Swinton.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 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 Salford
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.
What roof covering is used?
Natural slate is traditional; some councils accept other materials. We follow local guidance.
How long does a mansard loft conversion take in Salford?
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 Salford?
In Salford, 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.
