Covering Torquay
Alongside Torquay, we also cover Paignton, Newton Abbot (6 miles to the north-west) and Exmouth.
Homes in the South West
In the South West, matching local stone, render or slate is often the main design question, and conservation areas and listed buildings are common in historic towns.
What does a hip-to-gable loft conversion involve?
A hip-to-gable loft conversion rebuilds the sloping side (the hip) of a semi-detached or detached house roof as a vertical gable wall, extending the ridge and creating enough space for a staircase and rooms. It is usually combined with a rear dormer.
- Volume calculation and planning check
- Rear dormer and roof coverings to match
- Staircase, insulation, plastering and electrics
How much should I budget for a hip-to-gable loft conversion?
Indicative costs for hip-to-gable loft conversions. London and the South East usually sit towards the top of each range.
| Hip-to-gable loft conversions | Guide price incl. VAT |
|---|---|
| Hip-to-gable with rear dormer | £60,000 to £80,000 |
| Double hip-to-gable (detached house) | £70,000 to £95,000 |
How is a hip-to-gable loft conversion approved in Torquay?
In England we deal with the council’s planning team for permission or a lawful development certificate, with building control (the council or a registered building control approver) for inspections, and with neighbours under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 where it applies.
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?
- The new gable is usually rendered or built in matching brick.
- Scaffolding goes up on the side of the house, which may need a neighbour’s agreement.
What are the steps?
- Send us the details. Give us a postcode, a rough idea of size and some photos, by phone, form or the guide price tool.
- Survey at your house. We look at the existing structure, services and access, and agree what the design needs to achieve.
- Drawings, approvals, written quote. We prepare the design, apply for the approvals it needs, and give you a fixed price in writing.
- Construction and completion. One site lead co-ordinates every trade through to the building control certificate.
What people ask before starting
How much does a hip-to-gable loft conversion cost?
Usually £60,000 to £80,000 including VAT with a rear dormer, more on a detached house with two hips.
Will the roof tiles match?
We match the tiles as closely as possible, using reclaimed tiles where the originals are no longer made.
Can you visit a house in Torquay to quote?
Yes. After a short call we arrange a site visit to measure up and agree what the design needs to do, then send a written price.
Other towns nearby
- Hip-to-gable loft conversions in Paignton
- Hip-to-gable loft conversions in Newton Abbot
- Hip-to-gable loft conversions in Exmouth
- Hip-to-gable loft conversions in Exeter
Learn more about hip-to-gable loft conversions, or see every project we cover in Torquay.