A Hip to Gable Loft Conversion is when the sloping side of the roof (hip) is extended vertically from the ridgeline to create a gable and a Rear Dormer is formed to the rear of the property. This type of Loft Conversion maximises floor space and head space and is one of the most popular loft conversions across London. This is suited to most semi-detached or end-of-terraced properties that have an existing hipped roof.
Hip-to-gable Loft Conversions provides excellent additional space to your property. This space can be used to add a master bedroom with an en-suite, an additional bedroom for a growing family or an office too.
Yes, it is highly likely that you will require planning permission for a Hip to gable loft conversion. The vast majority of the loft conversions across London are carried out under permitted development, which means no formal planning application is required. However, when it comes to converting in a way that is visually prominent either from the front or side then planning permission will be required. For example, the addition of side dormer windows will be particularly contentious with the local planning authority.
We have seen that Hip to gable conversions do exceed these limits, they tend to have a great visual impact on the property's street appeal and, unless done to a great standard, can often appear to be quite bulky. An experienced architect can draw some possible variations that will reduce the bulkiness of the hip-to-gable loft conversion. We suggest in checking with your local architect or building authority to see if planning permission is required for your property.
A hip to gable loft conversion will cost more than a standard dormer loft conversion, you should expect to pay in excess of £50,000 in 2022. In addition to the building costs, you must add on the VAT, architectural fees, building control fees, bathroom fixtures and fittings, heating, doors and other finishes. With a hip to gable loft, the original hipped slope is removed, a new wall built up and the roof slope extended vertically to form the gable roof, making this project more labour intensive then a standard dormer conversion.
Yes, you can make changes to the design of your hip-to-gable conversion, but it is important to note that any changes you make may require additional approvals or permits from your local building authorities.
To comply with building regulations, the staircase that will lead to your new loft shall have a minimum of 2 meters of headroom. Fortunately, with a hip-to-gable loft, you won’t find it difficult to place your stairs with this requirement as it can create adequate headspace. Usually, the new staircase that will provide the way to the loft is best placed over the existing staircase, which is a more convenient way to use the space available. However, if it’s not possible, then you can always ask your builders to just create a dedicated room to accommodate the stairs.
Following building regulations whenever some construction occurs in your house is a definite requirement. This is to ensure that the room that will be built followed the standard safety regulations. To be able to receive approval, the structural drawings, calculations, and construction notes must be submitted to the local authority.
One of the most important considerations when starting with a loft conversion is fire safety, and even though no one wants to think about a fire starting in their homes, it is best to have the precautionary measures laid. In a loft conversion, fire safety protocols include but are not limited to the installation of smoke alarms which should be located in the hallways or landings, most, if not all doors that lead off to the staircase must be replaced with fire-resisting ones, and the materials that should be used in the loft conversion is required to offer at least 30 minutes of fire resistance.
If you would like to discuss the ways in which a Loft Conversion could enhance your home, call us on 0208 1020 675 or email to ask us any questions. For a free site survey and design consultation please fill out the form on the right and our team will get back to you as quickly as possible.
