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 Solihull?
In Solihull, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £63,000–£92,000 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices in the West Midlands sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Solihull reflects that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rear mansard | £63,000–£92,000 |
| Higher specification | £92,000–£115,000 |
What moves the price most:
- Roof covering: natural slate costs more
- Scaffolding on busy streets
- Bathrooms and finishes
- Front, rear or both
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 Solihull?
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
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Structural design and calculations
- Planning drawings and application
- Party wall notices to both neighbours
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Dormer windows
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 9 to 12 weeks on site, after planning approval. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Solihull
The West Midlands has large numbers of 1930s semis and Victorian terraces, which suit rear extensions, side extensions and dormer loft conversions.
From B91 outwards, we take on projects throughout Solihull and the surrounding parts of the West Midlands.
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
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about mansard loft conversions in Solihull
What roof covering is used?
Natural slate is traditional; some councils accept other materials. We follow local guidance.
How long does it take?
Around 9 to 12 weeks on site, plus 2 to 3 months for planning and party wall matters beforehand.
Do I need party wall agreements?
Yes, mansards on terraced houses almost always involve both party walls.
Who approves a mansard loft conversion in Solihull?
Planning matters in Solihull 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 Solihull?
In Solihull, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £63,000–£92,000 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
