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 Chatham?
In Chatham, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £33,500–£50,500 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the South East run about 12% above the UK average, and the figures for Chatham are adjusted to reflect that. 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:
- Storage and finishes
- Staircase position
- Bathroom or not
- Number of roof windows
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a rooflight loft conversion in Chatham?
Here is how the rules work for a rooflight loft conversion 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:
- Building control sign-off
- Floor joists and any steel beams
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Insulation between and under rafters
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Head-height survey
How long does it take?
Allow 4 to 6 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Chatham
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 Chatham (ME4) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about rooflight loft conversions in Chatham
How long does a rooflight loft conversion take in Chatham?
Typically 4 to 6 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 6 to 12 weeks.
Can I have a bathroom?
Yes, where there is enough head height at the shower or bath position.
How much does a rooflight loft conversion cost in Chatham?
In Chatham, 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.
What about fire safety?
The same escape rules apply as for any loft conversion, so a protected stairway and smoke alarms are typically needed.
Is it cheaper than a dormer?
Yes, usually, because the roof shape stays the same. But you gain less full-height floor space.