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 Shirley?
In Shirley, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £29,000–£43,500 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Building costs in the West Midlands are close to the UK average, so the figures for Shirley are close to our national guide. 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 |
What moves the price most:
- Bathroom or not
- Floor and roof strengthening
- Staircase position
- 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 Shirley?
Before anything is built in Shirley, 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
On a typical rooflight loft conversion we handle:
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Head-height survey
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Insulation between and under rafters
- Floor joists and any steel beams
- Building control sign-off
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 Shirley
The West Midlands has large numbers of 1930s semis and Victorian terraces, which suit rear extensions, side extensions and dormer loft conversions.
Shirley sits in the West Midlands, about 6 miles south-east of Birmingham. We cover the whole of Shirley, including postcodes B90.
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 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 sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about rooflight loft conversions in Shirley
Who approves a rooflight loft conversion in Shirley?
Planning matters in Shirley go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How much does a rooflight loft conversion cost in Shirley?
In Shirley, 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.
How long does it take?
Usually 4 to 6 weeks on site.
Is it cheaper than a dormer?
Yes, usually, because the roof shape stays the same. But you gain less full-height floor space.
Can I have a bathroom?
Yes, where there is enough head height at the shower or bath position.