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 Solihull?
In Solihull, a rooflight loft conversion typically costs £29,000–£43,500 for a typical rooflight conversion, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). Prices in the West Midlands sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Solihull 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
- Floor and roof strengthening
- Bathroom or not
- Fire safety upgrades
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 Solihull?
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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Floor joists and any steel beams
- Drawings and structural calculations
- Building control sign-off
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Head-height survey
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 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 Solihull
The West Midlands has large numbers of 1930s semis and Victorian terraces, which suit rear extensions, side extensions and dormer loft conversions.
Our Solihull coverage includes postcode districts B91, and we also work in nearby places such as Shirley, Birmingham and Kenilworth.
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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about rooflight loft conversions in Solihull
How much does a rooflight loft conversion cost in Solihull?
In Solihull, 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 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.
Who approves a rooflight loft conversion in Solihull?
Planning matters in Solihull go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How long does it take?
Usually 4 to 6 weeks on site.
What about fire safety?
The same escape rules apply as for any loft conversion, so a protected stairway and smoke alarms are typically needed.
