Loft conversion questions, answered

Most loft conversions in Windsor cost between £23,500 and £58,000, with an average of around £37,000. A simple Velux conversion starts lower, while a full dormer or mansard sits at the top of the range. We provide a fixed, itemised quote after a free survey.

Many loft conversions fall under permitted development and need no planning permission, subject to size and location limits (for example, the added roof volume must stay within set limits and cannot face the highway on the principal elevation). We check your property and handle any application if required.

The "10-year rule" limits how long a local planning authority can take enforcement action against unauthorised development. If a conversion has stood for more than 10 years without enforcement action, it may gain immunity from planning enforcement. However, it does not remove other legal obligations such as building regulations or listed-building consent, and relying on it is risky. The safest route is always to do the work properly — which we handle for you.

A Velux (rooflight) conversion is the least expensive option, typically £25,000 to £40,000, because it makes use of the existing roof structure with no major structural changes. It's ideal when your loft already has good headroom.

Common considerations include the loss of existing loft storage space, the staircase taking up some floor area on the floor below, and the need for adequate head height (typically 2.2m+ at the highest point). There's also some disruption during the build, though most of the work happens in the roof. We'll assess all of these during your free survey.

A typical Velux conversion takes 6–8 weeks, while a dormer or hip-to-gable usually takes 10–14 weeks. Design and approvals add time before the build starts. We'll give you a clear schedule before we begin.

Yes — all loft conversions require building regulations approval, covering structure, fire safety, insulation and stairs. We manage the whole process, including structural calculations and inspections, and provide certification on completion.

A well-built loft conversion typically adds around 20% to a property's resale value — often considerably more than the cost of the work — making it one of the best returns on investment in home improvement.

Some loft storage is used for the conversion itself, but we design clever built-in storage into the eaves so you keep plenty of practical space for belongings.

Most homes with a pitched roof and at least 2.2m of head height at the highest point can be converted. We'll assess your roof structure, headroom and foundations during a free survey and advise honestly on what's achievable.

Yes — in almost all cases you can live at home throughout. Because most work happens through the roof, disruption to the rooms below is minimal, and we keep everything clean and safe.

We're based in Windsor and cover the surrounding area, including Eton, Datchet, Old Windsor, Slough, Maidenhead, Ascot, Virginia Water, Englefield Green, Sunningdale and Wraysbury.