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 Surrey?
In Surrey, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £73,000–£106,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Surrey reflects typical costs in the South East, roughly 12% above the UK-wide figure. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Bathrooms and finishes
- Front, rear or both
- Scaffolding on busy streets
- Number of dormers and lead work
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 Surrey?
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
On a typical mansard loft conversion we handle:
- Party wall notices to both neighbours
- Structural design and calculations
- Dormer windows
- Building control sign-off
- Planning drawings and application
- New roof structure, slate or tile covering and lead work
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 Surrey
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.
Towns we cover in Surrey include Woking, Guildford, Esher, Redhill, Staines and Banstead.
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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about mansard loft conversions in Surrey
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.
Can I stay at home?
Usually. The new roof is built under a temporary cover so the house stays dry.
Do you build mansard loft conversions in Surrey?
Yes. We build mansard loft conversions across Surrey, including postcodes CR3, CR5, CR6, GU1 and GU10. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How long does it take?
Around 9 to 12 weeks on site, plus 2 to 3 months for planning and party wall matters beforehand.
How much does a mansard loft conversion cost in Surrey?
In Surrey, 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.
