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 the Lothians?
In the Lothians, 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 the Lothians 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Staircase position
- Storage and finishes
- Fire safety upgrades
- 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 the Lothians?
The approval route for the Lothians 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
Handled as part of most rooflight loft conversions:
- Floor joists and any steel beams
- Building control sign-off
- Roof windows installed
- Staircase and fire-safe escape route
- Insulation between and under rafters
- Electrics, heating and plastering
How long does it take?
Expect 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 the Lothians
Scotland’s housing ranges from sandstone tenements and villas to post-war and modern estates, and the building warrant system shapes how projects are planned.
Towns we cover in the Lothians include Livingston, Musselburgh, Bathgate, Bonnyrigg, Penicuik and Broxburn.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 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 the Lothians
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 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.
How much does a rooflight loft conversion cost in the Lothians?
In the Lothians, 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.
Do I need planning permission for a rooflight loft conversion in the Lothians?
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 the Lothians?
Yes. We build rooflight loft conversions across the Lothians, including postcodes EH10, EH11, EH18, EH19 and EH20. Every project starts with a free home visit.