What is a rooflight loft conversion?
A rooflight loft conversion (sometimes called a roof window conversion) keeps the existing roof shape and adds roof windows that sit flush with the slope. The floor is strengthened, a staircase is added and the space is insulated and finished.
How much does a rooflight loft conversion cost in Bournemouth?
In Bournemouth, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £30,500–£46,000 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the South West are close to the UK average, so the figures for Bournemouth are close to our national guide. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rooflight conversion | £30,500–£46,000 |
| Higher specification | £46,000–£57,500 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Floor and roof strengthening
- Fire safety upgrades
- Number of roof windows
- Bathroom or not
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 rooflight loft conversion in Bournemouth?
Approvals for a rooflight loft conversion in Bournemouth follow the rules for England. In England roof windows are permitted development if they project no more than 15 centimetres from the roof slope and side-facing windows are obscure-glazed. Listed buildings need consent.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
The work we manage on a rooflight loft conversion:
- Building control sign-off
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Roof windows installed
- Insulation between and under rafters
- Head-height survey
- Electrics, heating and plastering
How long does it take?
Expect 4 to 6 weeks on site. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 6 to 12 weeks, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Bournemouth
The South West mixes stone and render cottages with post-war and newer estates, and local materials matter more here when matching an extension.
From BH1 outwards, we take on projects throughout Bournemouth and the surrounding parts of Dorset.
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 pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about rooflight loft conversions in Bournemouth
Can I have a bathroom?
Yes, where there is enough head height at the shower or bath position.
How much head height do I need?
Around 2.2 metres or more from the top of the ceiling joists to the ridge is a good starting point. Insulation and new floor joists reduce the height.
How much does a rooflight loft conversion cost in Bournemouth?
In Bournemouth, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £30,500–£46,000 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How long does a rooflight loft conversion take in Bournemouth?
Typically 4 to 6 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
Is it cheaper than a dormer?
Yes, usually, because the roof shape stays the same. But you gain less full-height floor space.