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 Edinburgh?
In Edinburgh, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £29,000–£43,500 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices in Scotland sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Edinburgh reflects that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rooflight conversion | £29,000–£43,500 |
| Higher specification | £43,500–£54,500 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Storage and finishes
- Number of roof windows
- Staircase position
- Floor and roof strengthening
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a rooflight loft conversion in Edinburgh?
The approval route for Edinburgh is set by planning law in Scotland. In Scotland rooflights that project no more than 1 metre from the roof are often permitted development, though conservation areas and listed buildings need consent. A building warrant is needed for the conversion itself.
In Scotland a building warrant is needed before work starts on most extensions, loft conversions and conversions. It is issued by the council’s building standards service. When the work is finished, a completion certificate is submitted and accepted by the council after inspection.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Roof windows installed
- Floor joists and any steel beams
- Building control sign-off
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Insulation between and under rafters
How long does it take?
Allow 4 to 6 weeks on site. Design and approvals come first and typically take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the approval route.
Building in Edinburgh
In Scotland, bungalows and one-and-a-half-storey homes are common, so dormer conversions are a popular way to add bedrooms.
We cover the whole of Edinburgh.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 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 Edinburgh
How long does it take?
Usually 4 to 6 weeks on site.
Do I need planning permission for a rooflight loft conversion in Edinburgh?
In Scotland rooflights that project no more than 1 metre from the roof are often permitted development, though conservation areas and listed buildings need consent. A building warrant is needed for the conversion itself.
Do you build rooflight loft conversions in Edinburgh?
Yes. We build rooflight loft conversions across Edinburgh, including postcodes EH1, EH10, EH12, EH13 and EH14. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a rooflight loft conversion cost in Edinburgh?
In Edinburgh, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £29,000–£43,500 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Is it cheaper than a dormer?
Yes, usually, because the roof shape stays the same. But you gain less full-height floor space.
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.