But how much does an attic conversion cost? There's variety of price factors, from the type of attic conversion construction, how complex your design is, the structural work required, as well as planning and professional fees.

Here’s what to think about when planning your attic conversion costs:

Planning permission for attic conversions

An attic conversion does not require planning permission in most cases as it comes under the category of Permitted Development. However, there are some circumstances where full planning permission could be needed:

• If you live in a period property
• If you live in a conservation area
• If your conversion plan involves extending or altering the roof space in a manner that exceeds specified limits and conditions

Check the UK Government website for more guidance on permitted development, and get in touch with your local authority to see if your project would need planning permission.

Different types of attic conversions

The cost of your attic conversion will vary according to the type of construction you choose. The price will be higher for more complex conversions that need more structural work.

Here’s a brief overview of the types of attic conversion:

• Velux conversion, or room in roof conversion - no alterations are required the outer structure of your home, so this type is the most straightforward attic conversion. Roof windows are installed to bring light to the attic rooms. It’s a good choice if you have the minimum 2.1 metres of head height required for a loft conversion.
• A dormer conversion extends out from the back or side of the roof into a box shape, which creates the space in the attic room. 
• A hip-to-gable conversion can work well for semi-detached or bungalow properties that have a hipped roof with sloping side. The hip side of the roof is converted into a flat edge which creates space inside the attic.
• The most expensive option is a Mansard conversion. It has a flat roof, with the back wall sloping inwards at a 72 degree angle, and usually with small dormers to house the windows. Due to the structural changes involved, planning permission will most likely be needed.      

Budgeting for an attic conversion

When planning your attic conversion costs you will need to budget for:

• Plumbing
• Heating
• Electrics
• Lighting
• Insulation
• Ventilation
• Fire safety compliance
• Floor reinforcement
• Staircase access

Attic conversion professional fees

“A loft conversion is a specialist project,” says Daniel Moore of DJ Moore Lofts, loft conversion specialists and VELUX certified installers based in Milton Keynes. “So make sure you work with contractors who are highly experienced in attic conversions.”

The professional fees for your attic conversion will depend on how involved you want to be and which approach to the build you choose:

• Hire attic conversion specialists - if you want the peace of mind of an all-in-one option, an attic conversion specialist can handle the whole process from design to build.
• Architect + contractor - if you have a particular vision in mind, you could hire an architect draw up plans then appoint a contractor to carry out and manage the build. 
• Project manage yourself - if you have the time and confidence, you could make savings by project managing the build yourself and appointing contractors.

Miscellaneous costs for an attic conversion

• Furniture costs - the sloping angles of an attic can make furnishing the space a little challenging, so consider any favourite pieces in the design stage to make sure they will fit, or you may want to make room in the budget for custom items such as built-in shelving or wardrobes. Check out our tips on how to make the most of the space in a loft conversion.
• Legal charges - such as building regulation fees. Your completed attic conversion will need to be inspected by your local authority to ensure it complies with fire safety and building regulations.
• Contingency - even if you meticulously plan your attic conversion costs, unexpected extra costs will inevitably pop up so be sure to budget for at least a 10% contingency.

Get more inspiration for your attic conversion here, from design to planning to decoration in our loft conversion.