Average cost of a loft conversion

Summary: How much does a loft conversion cost, average labour costs and average price of materials.

If you are considering expanding the useable space in your home with a loftconversion then chances are you will have thought about the average cost of a loft conversion.

There are a surprising number of factors to consider that can all have an effect on the cost of a loft conversion, but before you can calculate a budget, you need to decide what you will be using this extra space for.

You could be looking for an office space, or, if your property is large enough, you may want to convert an attic into two bedrooms.

Whatever you decide you want the extra room for, it will have an impact on the cost.

Planning ahead is a good way to ensure that you can keep the price of the development under control and means you should not stray too far from the initial cost that you calculate.

Average Cost

Factors to consider

From planning and legal regulations to materials and labour, there are a lot of things to take into account when you are working out the average cost of a loft conversion.

If you are embarking on a complex conversion, you may decide that you need to work with an architect to draw up the plans, which can increase the cost.

At the planning stage, it is vital that you think about things such as how many electrical points you will need and where they will go, whether you need to install new windows for sufficient light and how you will heat the room.

Each of these factors can alter the cost and you need to make sure that you are aware of them from the beginning of the process.

You will not necessarily need planning permission from your local authority before you carry out a loft conversion, however, certain conditions need to be met.

Make sure you check that your plans comply with government regulation – otherwise you may need to apply for planning permission before carrying out any work, which can increase costs.

This is particularly true if you live in a listed building as different planning rules and regulations apply.

Costs to consider

Calculating the average cost of a loft conversion does not end with the planning stages.

There are many more things that you need to consider if you are to build up an accurate picture. Materials are one important consideration that can greatly affect the cost.

Sit down with your builder or architect before you begin the work and decide which materials are most suitable for your space, as well as which ones you can afford under your budget.

Remember to allow a margin of error when calculating the cost of the loft conversion as unforeseen factors can result in extra expenses.

Labour is the next thing that you need to consider, do not underestimate how long it will take to carry out the job, every conversion is different and you should take your builder’s estimates of time and budget into account when calculating.