Covering Runcorn
Runcorn is about 12 miles north-east of Chester. We also cover Widnes (1 miles to the north), Speke and Great Sankey.
Homes in the North West
The North West has long rows of Victorian terraced houses in its towns and cities, alongside inter-war semis and post-war estates, so rear extensions, dormer lofts and kitchen extensions are common projects.
What goes into a dormer loft conversion?
A dormer loft conversion builds a box-shaped extension out from the rear slope of the roof, creating vertical walls and full head height across most of the new floor. It is the most popular type of loft conversion because it gives the most usable space for the cost.
- Lawful development certificate or planning drawings
- Staircase, insulation and plasterboard
- En-suite, electrics and fire-protected escape route
What will a dormer loft conversion cost?
Guide prices for dormer loft conversions, including VAT where it applies. Your fixed price is confirmed in writing after the survey.
| Dormer loft conversions | Guide price incl. VAT |
|---|---|
| Rear dormer, bedroom only | £50,000 to £65,000 |
| Full-width dormer with en-suite | £60,000 to £80,000 |
| L-shaped dormer (over rear outrigger) | £65,000 to £90,000 |
What approvals does a dormer loft conversion need in England?
English projects need planning clearance from the local council, building regulations sign-off from building control, and party wall notices where the work is on or near a shared boundary. We prepare and manage all three.
In England many loft conversions are permitted development: the extra roof volume must stay within 40 m³ on a terraced house or 50 m³ on a semi or detached house, nothing can sit higher than the existing ridge, no dormer can face a road on the main elevation, and side windows must be obscure-glazed and non-opening below 1.7 m. Houses in conservation areas, National Parks and National Landscapes cannot use these roof-extension rights, so dormers there need planning permission (a rooflight-only conversion can still be permitted development), and flats always need permission.
What should I think about before starting?
- Dormers on the front of the house facing a road are not permitted development in England.
- A flat dormer roof needs proper falls and a quality membrane.
What happens after I enquire?
- Send us the details. Give us a postcode, a rough idea of size and some photos, by phone, form or the guide price tool.
- We visit and measure. A surveyor checks the house, the boundaries and the ground, and discusses what is realistic.
- Design and fixed price. You get drawings and a written price for the agreed specification before anything is ordered.
- Construction and completion. One site lead co-ordinates every trade through to the building control certificate.
Your questions answered
Is a dormer permitted development?
Rear dormers in England often are, within the 40 m³ (terrace) or 50 m³ (semi or detached) volume allowance. Front dormers facing a road are not.
Can a dormer include a bathroom?
Yes. The full head height in a dormer makes it the best place for a shower room or en-suite.
How do I get a price for dormer loft conversions in Runcorn?
Use the guide price tool for a ballpark figure, then book a visit for a fixed written price for the agreed specification.
Dormer loft conversions in nearby towns
- Dormer loft conversions in Widnes
- Dormer loft conversions in Speke
- Dormer loft conversions in Great Sankey
- Dormer loft conversions in Huyton
Learn more about dormer loft conversions, or see every project we cover in Runcorn.

