Loft Conversions in West London
Dormer, hip-to-gable, mansard and rooflight loft conversions that add bedrooms, bathrooms and living space without moving house.
A loft conversion is often the most cost-effective way to add a bedroom and bathroom to a West London home.
Loft conversions have been part of our work since Abode began. One of our very first projects was a loft conversion in South West London, and we have converted lofts on terraces, semis and period houses ever since.
We handle the whole project: the survey and drawings, planning permission or a lawful development certificate, structural calculations, building control, party wall notices and the build itself, through to decoration.
The right type of conversion depends on your roof, your street and the space you need. We assess all three on the first visit and explain the options before any drawings are made.
We build loft conversions across West London, including Chiswick, Acton, Shepherds Bush, Kensington, Notting Hill and Holland Park.
Types of loft conversion
Which loft conversion suits your house?
Rear dormer
The most common conversion on West London terraces. A box-shaped extension on the rear roof slope creates full-height space for a bedroom and shower room, and is often permitted development.
L-shaped dormer
For houses with a rear wing, dormers over the main roof and the back addition join up to give the most floor space. Popular on Victorian terraces in Chiswick, Acton and Shepherds Bush.
Hip-to-gable
For semi-detached and end-of-terrace houses with a sloping side roof. The hip is built up into a vertical gable wall, often with a rear dormer, making room for a proper staircase and larger rooms.
Mansard
A mansard replaces the rear roof slope with a steep, almost vertical wall and a flatter top. It gives the most space and is often the accepted form in conservation areas, but it always needs planning permission.
Velux or rooflight
Where the roof is already tall enough, rooflights set into the existing slope create a bright room with the least change to the outside of the house, often without planning permission.
What is included
Everything handled by one team
- Measured survey and design drawings
- Planning application or lawful development certificate
- Structural engineering and building control
- Party wall notices for your neighbours
- New staircase, insulation and fire safety work
- Plumbing and electrics, including en suite bathrooms
- Windows, rooflights and roof finishes
- Plastering, joinery and decoration
Questions
Loft conversions: common questions
Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?
Many rear dormer and hip-to-gable conversions on houses are permitted development, so they do not need a full planning application. Flats, houses in conservation areas and mansard roofs need planning permission. We check your address and apply for whichever approval is needed.
How long does a loft conversion take?
Most dormer conversions take around eight to twelve weeks on site, depending on the size and finish. Mansards and larger projects take longer. We give you a programme before work starts.
Can we live at home during the work?
Usually, yes. Most of the work is done from scaffolding outside, and we only open up into the house when the new loft is weathertight and the staircase goes in. We protect the floors below and clean up every day.
How much does a loft conversion cost?
It depends on the type of conversion, the size of the roof and the finish you choose. We visit, measure and give you a clear written quote. Call us on 020 8749 0899 to arrange a visit.
Will I need a party wall agreement?
On terraced and semi-detached houses, usually yes, because the work affects the shared wall. We arrange for the notices to be served and work with the surveyors, so the agreements are in place before we start.
Can you add an en suite bathroom in the loft?
Yes. Most of our loft conversions include a shower room or en suite. We plan the plumbing and drainage route at the design stage so the bathroom sits in the best place.
Ready to talk about your project?
Call us or send a short enquiry — we will get back to you promptly.