Loft conversions in Dorset

Covering Dorset

Our coverage across Dorset includes Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth and Christchurch.

Homes in the South West

The South West mixes stone and render cottages, Victorian terraces in the larger towns and modern estates, and many historic centres are conservation areas where materials and roof shapes are closely controlled.

What do you get with a loft conversion?

We start with the head height. You need roughly 2.2 m or more from the top of the ceiling joists to the underside of the ridge for a conversion to work without raising the roof. From there we design the staircase position, the type of conversion and the en-suite, and manage the whole build including fire safety and building control.

Design drawings and structural calculations
Planning or lawful development certificate
New floor joists, steels and staircase

How much does a loft conversion cost in Dorset?

Indicative costs for loft conversions. London and the South East usually sit towards the top of each range.

Loft conversions	Guide price incl. VAT
Rooflight conversion	£30,000 to £45,000
Dormer conversion	£50,000 to £90,000
Hip-to-gable with dormer	£60,000 to £95,000
Mansard conversion	£65,000 to £110,000

Do you need permission for a loft conversion in Dorset?

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 Dorset homeowners check first?

Head height under the ridge decides whether a conversion is practical.
The new staircase usually takes space from the landing or a bedroom below.

How does the project run?

Start with a conversation. A short call or the online form is enough for us to understand what you want to build.
We visit and measure. A surveyor checks the house, the boundaries and the ground, and discusses what is realistic.
Price and paperwork. The design is priced line by line, and we submit the planning and building control applications.
Build and hand over. Our teams build to the programme, building control inspects, and you get the completion paperwork at the end.

Your questions answered

How long does a loft conversion take?

Usually 6 to 14 weeks on site depending on the type.

Can we live at home during a loft conversion?

Yes. Most of the work is done from scaffolding until the staircase goes in near the end.

How do I get a price for loft conversions in Dorset?

Use the guide price tool for a ballpark figure, then book a visit for a fixed written price for the agreed specification.

Other towns nearby

Learn more about loft conversions, or see every project we cover in Dorset.