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 West Sussex?
In West Sussex, a mansard loft conversion typically costs £73,000–£106,500 for a typical rear mansard, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). That range is adjusted for the South East, where domestic building work typically costs around 12% above the national 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:
- Bathrooms and finishes
- Number of dormers and lead work
- Party wall surveyor fees
- Scaffolding on busy streets
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 West Sussex?
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.
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
What we take care of:
- Planning drawings and application
- Dormer windows
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Structural design and calculations
- Building control sign-off
- 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. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in West Sussex
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 West Sussex include Crawley, Worthing, Bognor Regis, Littlehampton, Horsham and Haywards Heath.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 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 West Sussex
How much does a mansard loft conversion cost in West Sussex?
In West Sussex, 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.
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 West Sussex?
Typically 9 to 12 weeks on site, after planning approval. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
Can I stay at home?
Usually. The new roof is built under a temporary cover so the house stays dry.
