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 Brighton?
In Brighton, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £33,500–£50,500 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). The guide for Brighton 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 rooflight conversion | £33,500–£50,500 |
| Higher specification | £50,500–£63,000 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Staircase position
- Floor and roof strengthening
- Bathroom or not
- Fire safety upgrades
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a rooflight loft conversion in Brighton?
Before anything is built in Brighton, we confirm which approvals apply in 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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Roof windows installed
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Building control sign-off
- Head-height survey
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 Brighton
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.
We work across Brighton and neighbouring areas such as Hove, Portslade and Rottingdean. Postcodes we cover in Brighton include BN2.
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
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 rooflight loft conversions in Brighton
What about fire safety?
The same escape rules apply as for any loft conversion, so a protected stairway and smoke alarms are typically needed.
How much does a rooflight loft conversion cost in Brighton?
In Brighton, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £33,500–£50,500 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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.
Who approves a rooflight loft conversion in Brighton?
Planning matters in Brighton go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
Can I have a bathroom?
Yes, where there is enough head height at the shower or bath position.