Dormer Loft Conversions

If you’re thinking of transforming dead attic space into a stylish loft conversion, you will no doubt come across the term Dormer loft conversion. Easier to install, spacious, and one of our homeowner’s favourites, here is everything you need to know about Dormer loft conversions.         

What is a Dormer loft conversion?

A Dormer loft conversion involves installing a box shaped structure into the pitched roof (sloped roof) of your home. The right-angles of the dormer create a flat rather than sloped roof, giving you ample headroom and classic room shape dimensions.

As the main windows face directly outwards, a Dormer lets in lots of natural light and offers great views of the outside.

What are the different types of Dormer loft conversion?

There are a variety of Dormer loft conversions to suit your home. The main ones are:

  • Flat Roof Dormer – Typically built at the rear of your home, a flat roof Dormer has, you guessed it, a flat, horizontal roof. It usually expands the width of your home super-sizing your space.
  • Side Dormer – These Dormers are built into the side facing roof slope. They are ideal for adding space to a property where the roof ridge runs from the front to the back of the home.  
  • Front Pitched Dormer – A Front Pitched Dormer, also known as a Gable Dormer, is a small dormer topped with a mini gable roof.
  • L-shaped Dormer – An L-shaped Dormer creates an immense amount of space as it comprises two connected Dormers in an L-shape. 
This Front Pitched Dormer conversion perfectly complements this period London home

Is my home suitable for a Dormer loft conversion?

There are lots of things to consider when considering the right type of loft conversion. We are happy to visit and advise on the best style of conversion for your home.

As a rule of thumb, if your home has a pitched roof it should be suitable for a Dormer. It is the ideal loft conversion for London terraced homes, semi-detached and detached homes.     

What are the benefits of a Dormer loft conversion?   

As well as increasing your property’s value, Dormers add a huge amount of additional living space – often becoming the biggest (and favourite!) room in your home. Unlike loft conversions with sloped walls, Dormers create a traditional shaped interior with horizontal ceilings and vertical walls. As flat roof Dormers are slightly less build-intensive they are usually cheaper and quicker to complete than other conversion types.

Dormers also allow for a full-size staircase – usually fitted directly above your existing staircase – seamlessly connecting your new room to the rest of your home.

A Flat Roof Dormer with UPVC French doors clad in red tiles to match existing

Do I need planning permission for a Dormer loft conversion in London?

Dormer loft conversions count as ‘permitted developments’, as such they do not usually need planning permission. However, we always recommend checking with your local authority in case there are reasons you need planning permission for some or all the work.

If you live in a conservation or heritage area in London, or a flat or maisonette, permitted development rights are more restricted so you will need to seek planning permission.

We can advise whether planning permission is needed and make the application to the local authority on your behalf.

A lead clad Dormer with heritage leaded glazed windows in a London conservation area

How can I be sure my Dormer loft conversion does not require planning permission?

If you want to be certain that your loft conversion doesn’t require planning permission, we recommend applying for a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) from your local authority.

This will determine whether the conversion is lawful. If it passes you will receive a certificate as evidence that your renovation meets legal planning requirements, giving you peace of mind now and if you come to sell your home in the future.

How much does a Dormer loft conversion in London cost?

The cost of your Dormer conversion depends on a variety of factors, such as your roof size, materials and labour needed, and level of interior finish. A flat roof Dormer is one of the most cost-effective loft conversions as it requires less changes to the roof structure.   

The average price of a Dormer conversion in London is currently £40,000 to £50,000.

A beautifully blended Side Dormer loft conversion

What space can I create with a Dormer loft conversion?

Depending on the size of your home, a Dormer loft conversion can add between 40 to 50 cubic meters of space, which is a lot of extra room to play with!  

Dormer loft bedroom ensuite: This is one of the most popular use of Dormers creating a spacious new bedroom, en suite bathroom and even a dressing room area. It is ideal for creating a luxurious master bedroom on the top floor and children’s bedrooms on the second floor.

This L-shaped Dormer conversion includes an expansive master bedroom and en suite
The en suite featuring stand alone bath and his and her wash basins

Dormer loft children’s room and en suite: Turning your loft into one or two children’s bedrooms with a separate bathroom is a great way to accommodate a growing family. You can also create an expansive den for privacy-craving teenagers.

Dormer loft Wellness room/Home office/Music room: Dormers can house a range of spaces to fit your needs, from a roomy home office with lots of storage to a blissful bathroom and wellness zone featuring roll top bath, walk-in shower and yoga area. It can also serve as a retreat to relax and play music.      

See these Dormer Loft Conversion Ideas for inspiration.

Why choose us to design and install your London Dormer loft conversion?

  • 35+ years constructing quality Dormer conversions in London and South east
  • Complete project management from Planning and Building Regulations approval to exceptional construction and interior finish
  • Absolute Value Promise cost-effective processes and price-match promise
  • Quality accredited Builders – Federation of Master Builders
  • 10-year Loft Conversion structural guarantee

To arrange a free, no obligation estimate get in touch with us today.