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 Irlam?
In Irlam, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £28,000–£42,500 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the North West run about 6% below the UK average, and the figures for Irlam are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rooflight conversion | £28,000–£42,500 |
| Higher specification | £42,500–£53,000 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Bathroom or not
- Floor and roof strengthening
- Storage and finishes
- 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 Irlam?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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.
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
Handled as part of most rooflight loft conversions:
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Head-height survey
- Floor joists and any steel beams
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Insulation between and under rafters
- Drawings and structural calculations
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 4 to 6 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Irlam
The North West has many brick terraces and inter-war semis, where kitchen extensions and dormer loft conversions add space without moving.
Irlam sits in Greater Manchester, about 8 miles west of Manchester. We cover the whole of Irlam, including postcodes M44.
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
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 Irlam
Who approves a rooflight loft conversion in Irlam?
Planning matters in Irlam go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
Is it cheaper than a dormer?
Yes, usually, because the roof shape stays the same. But you gain less full-height floor space.
How long does it take?
Usually 4 to 6 weeks on site.
How much does a rooflight loft conversion cost in Irlam?
In Irlam, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £28,000–£42,500 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can I have a bathroom?
Yes, where there is enough head height at the shower or bath position.
