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 New Malden?
In New Malden, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £39,000–£58,500 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices across London are typically 30% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for New Malden. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| A typical rooflight conversion | £39,000–£58,500 |
| Higher specification | £58,500–£73,000 |
What moves the price most:
- Floor and roof strengthening
- Staircase position
- Number of roof windows
- Bathroom or not
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 New Malden?
Approvals for a rooflight loft conversion in New Malden 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
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Building control sign-off
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Roof windows installed
- Insulation between and under rafters
- 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 New Malden
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
From KT3 outwards, we take on projects throughout New Malden and the surrounding parts of Greater London.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed 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 New Malden
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 does a rooflight loft conversion cost in New Malden?
In New Malden, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £39,000–£58,500 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Who approves a rooflight loft conversion in New Malden?
Planning matters in New Malden go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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 long does it take?
Usually 4 to 6 weeks on site.
