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 Southsea?
In Southsea, 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Front, rear or both
- Roof covering: natural slate costs more
- Party wall surveyor fees
- Bathrooms and finishes
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 Southsea?
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:
- Building control sign-off
- Dormer windows
- Planning drawings and application
- New roof structure, slate or tile covering and lead work
- Insulation, electrics, plumbing and plastering
- Structural design and calculations
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Southsea
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
Projects in Southsea (PO4) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
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
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 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 Southsea
Do you build mansard loft conversions in Southsea?
Yes. We build mansard loft conversions across Southsea, including postcodes PO4. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a mansard loft conversion cost in Southsea?
In Southsea, 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.
How long does it take?
Around 9 to 12 weeks on site, plus 2 to 3 months for planning and party wall matters beforehand.
What roof covering is used?
Natural slate is traditional; some councils accept other materials. We follow local guidance.
