Loft Conversions Hampshire: The Complete 2026 Guide
Planning a loft conversion in Hampshire? This guide covers everything you need to know — from costs and planning permission to finding trusted local companies. We've helped hundreds of Hampshire homeowners find the right loft conversion specialist.
How Much Do Loft Conversions Cost in Hampshire?
The cost of a loft conversion in Hampshire depends on the type, size, and specification. Here are typical 2026 prices:
| Loft Conversion Type | Price Range | Build Time | Best For |
|---------------------|-------------|------------|----------|
| Velux / Roof Light | £25,000 - £40,000 | 2-3 weeks | Home office, storage, budget option |
| Dormer Conversion | £40,000 - £70,000 | 6-8 weeks | Extra bedroom, most popular choice |
| Hip to Gable | £45,000 - £80,000 | 8-10 weeks | Semi-detached & end terrace homes |
| Mansard Conversion | £60,000 - £100,000+ | 10-12 weeks | Maximum space, period properties |
| L-Shaped Dormer | £55,000 - £85,000 | 8-10 weeks | Large family homes |
What's included: Structural work, stairs, electrics, plastering, windows, insulation, and basic decoration.
What costs extra: En-suite bathroom (+£5,000-£10,000), premium finishes, extensive electrical work.
> 💡 Pro tip: Always get at least 3 quotes. Prices in Hampshire vary by £10,000+ for the same work.
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Best Loft Conversion Companies in Hampshire
We've researched and ranked the top loft conversion specialists across Hampshire, based on reviews, experience, and completed projects.
Portsmouth & South Hampshire
D Scott & Sons Lofts
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 20+ Years Experience
| | |
|---|---|
| 📞 | 0800 44 88 474 |
| 📍 | Portsmouth, Waterlooville, Havant, Fareham, Gosport |
| 🌐 | dscottlofts.co.uk |
Hampshire's most established loft specialists. Full project management, finance options, free surveys. Known for quality and reliability.
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Complete Carpentry Southern Ltd
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Local Favourite
| | |
|---|---|
| 📞 | 07939 890 225 |
| 📍 | Waterlooville, Portsmouth, Hampshire-wide |
| 🌐 | completecs.co.uk |
Family-run business with exceptional attention to detail. Competitive pricing, great communication throughout.
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ABS Builders Hampshire
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Versatile
| | |
|---|---|
| 📞 | 02393 113994 |
| 📍 | Waterlooville, Havant, Portsmouth, Fareham |
| 🌐 | absbuildershampshire.com |
Full-service builders handling lofts, extensions, and garages. Good for multiple projects.
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Southampton & Central Hampshire
Apex Loft Conversions
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Highly Rated
| | |
|---|---|
| 📞 | 023 8000 0000 |
| 📍 | Southampton, Eastleigh, Winchester |
| 🌐 | apexloftconversions.com |
Specialists in dormer and hip-to-gable conversions across central Hampshire.
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Sky Lofts
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Established
| | |
|---|---|
| 📞 | Contact via website |
| 📍 | Hampshire-wide |
| 🌐 | skylofts.co.uk |
Experienced team covering all of Hampshire with a range of loft conversion options.
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North Hampshire
Touchstone Lofts
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Premium Quality
| | |
|---|---|
| 📍 | Basingstoke, Andover, Winchester |
| 🌐 | touchstonelofts.co.uk |
High-end loft conversions with premium finishes. Good for period properties.
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Do You Need Planning Permission in Hampshire?
Good news: Most loft conversions in Hampshire fall under Permitted Development — no planning application needed.
When You DON'T Need Planning Permission:
- Rear dormer conversions (most common)
- Velux/roof light conversions
- Internal loft conversions
- Volume under 40m³ (terraced) or 50m³ (other)
When You DO Need Planning Permission:
- 🏛️ Listed buildings
- 📍 Conservation areas (parts of Winchester, Romsey, etc.)
- 🏠 Flats or maisonettes
- ⬆️ Raising the roof height
- 🏗️ Exceeding volume limits
You ALWAYS Need:
- Building Regulations approval — for structural, fire safety, insulation
- Party Wall Agreement — if you share a wall (terraced/semi)
> All companies listed above handle Building Regs for you.
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Areas Covered in Hampshire
Our listed loft conversion companies serve:
South Hampshire: Portsmouth | Waterlooville | Havant | Fareham | Gosport | Emsworth
Central Hampshire: Southampton | Eastleigh | Chandlers Ford | Winchester | Romsey
North Hampshire: Basingstoke | Andover | Alton | Fleet | Farnborough
East Hampshire: Petersfield | Alresford | Horndean | Clanfield
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Loft Conversion Regulations in Hampshire
All loft conversions must meet Building Regulations. Here's what inspectors check:
| Requirement | Standard |
|-------------|----------|
| Headroom | Minimum 2.2m at highest point |
| Stairs | Must meet fire escape requirements |
| Fire safety | Fire doors, smoke alarms, escape window |
| Insulation | U-value of 0.18 W/m²K or better |
| Structural | Floor joists adequate for new use |
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Types of Loft Conversion Explained
Velux / Roof Light Conversion
The simplest and cheapest option. Windows are installed into the existing roof slope — no structural changes to the roofline. Best for home offices or storage.
Cost: £15,000 - £25,000
Dormer Loft Conversion
The most popular choice in Hampshire. A box-shaped extension is built out from the roof, creating full headroom and vertical walls. Can be rear, side, or front-facing.
Cost: £30,000 - £50,000
Hip to Gable Conversion
Ideal for semi-detached and end-terrace homes with hipped (sloping) roofs. The sloped side is extended to create a vertical gable wall, dramatically increasing space.
Cost: £40,000 - £65,000
Mansard Conversion
The roof slope is changed to near-vertical (72°), maximising internal space. Often used on terraced Victorian/Edwardian homes. Usually requires planning permission.
Cost: £50,000 - £75,000
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Why Convert Your Loft?
| Benefit | Details |
|---------|---------|
| 💰 Increase property value | Add 15-20% to your Hampshire home's value |
| 🏠 More living space | Extra bedroom, office, playroom, gym |
| 💵 Cheaper than moving | Save stamp duty (up to £15,000 on a Hampshire home) |
| 🌳 Keep your garden | No ground-floor extension needed |
| ⚡ Quick build | 6-8 weeks for most conversions |
| 🏡 Stay in your area | Keep kids in school, stay near family |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a loft conversion cost in Hampshire?
A loft conversion in Hampshire typically costs between £25,000 and £100,000+ in 2026. A Velux conversion starts around £25,000-£40,000, a rear dormer costs £40,000-£70,000, hip-to-gable runs £45,000-£80,000, and a mansard can reach £60,000-£100,000+. Expect to pay around £2,400+ per square metre. Get 3+ quotes as prices vary significantly.
Cost breakdown:
- Labour: 40-50%
- Materials: 30-40%
- Planning & design: 10-15%
- Contingency: 10% (for unexpected issues)
How long does a loft conversion take?
Most loft conversions in Hampshire take 6-8 weeks from start to finish. A simple Velux conversion may take just 2-3 weeks, while a complex mansard or hip-to-gable could take 10-12 weeks.
Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion in Hampshire?
Usually no. Most loft conversions fall under Permitted Development rights. However, you'll need planning permission if your home is listed, in a conservation area, or if the conversion exceeds size limits. You will always need Building Regulations approval.
Will a loft conversion add value to my Hampshire home?
Yes. A loft conversion typically adds 15-20% to your property value. On an average Hampshire home worth £350,000, that's £52,500-£70,000 of added value — far more than the conversion costs.
Can my house have a loft conversion?
Most Hampshire houses can have a loft conversion if there's at least 2.2m head height at the highest point of the existing loft. A surveyor can assess suitability — most companies offer free surveys.
What's the best type of loft conversion?
For most Hampshire homes, a rear dormer offers the best balance of cost, space, and planning ease. Hip-to-gable works well for semi-detached homes. Your installer can advise based on your roof type.
How do I find a good loft conversion company?
Get at least 3 quotes, check recent reviews (2025/2026), ask for references, visit a completed project if possible, and ensure they handle Building Regulations. All companies on this page have been vetted.
What is the 10 year rule for loft conversions?
The 10-year rule (changed from 4 years in April 2024) means an unauthorised loft conversion becomes immune from council enforcement if it has existed unchallenged for 10 years. However, this only applies to planning permission — Building Regulations can be enforced at any time. Non-compliance with Building Regs affects safety and can block property sales or mortgages. Always get proper approvals.
Which lofts cannot be converted?
Lofts generally can't be converted if they have insufficient headroom (need 2.2m across half the floor), trussed roofs (W-shaped, common in post-1960s homes), or if you're in a listed building or conservation area. Flat owners who don't own the freehold also can't convert. However, solutions like dormer or mansard conversions can add headroom to otherwise unsuitable lofts.
What is the minimum head height for a loft conversion?
Building Regulations require a minimum of 2.2 metres head height across at least half the floor area after conversion. If your existing loft doesn't meet this, a dormer or mansard conversion can add the necessary height.
Can you do a loft conversion for £20k?
Very unlikely in 2026. The cheapest loft conversions (basic Velux/roof light) now start around £25,000-£30,000. A £20k budget might cover a non-habitable storage conversion without Building Regulations, but not a proper bedroom or living space. Budget at least £25,000-£40,000 for the simplest habitable conversion.
What is the cheapest way to convert a loft?
The Velux or roof light conversion is cheapest at £25,000-£40,000. It involves adding windows to the existing roof slope without structural changes. Best for home offices or storage where full headroom isn't critical. For a proper bedroom, a rear dormer (£40,000+) is usually the most cost-effective option.
What is the most expensive part of a loft conversion?
Structural work and labour typically account for 50-60% of the cost. This includes steel beams, floor strengthening, dormers, and the staircase. Other big costs: the staircase itself (£3,000-£8,000), en-suite bathroom (£5,000-£10,000), and windows (£1,000-£3,000 each).
What are the common problems with loft conversions?
Common issues include: insufficient headroom (need 2.2m), trussed roofs (need structural changes), party wall disputes with neighbours, planning permission issues in conservation areas, staircase positioning (where does it go?), and building regulations compliance. Always get a proper survey first.
What's the best time of year for a loft conversion?
Spring (March-May) or early autumn (September-October) are ideal. Weather is mild for roof work, and you avoid the busy summer holiday period when builders are in high demand. Winter is possible but may cause delays due to weather. Book 2-3 months ahead for popular times.
Do you need to inform neighbours about a loft conversion?
Yes, if you share a wall. Terraced and semi-detached homes require a Party Wall Agreement under the Party Wall Act 1996. You must notify neighbours in writing at least 2 months before work starts. They can consent or appoint a surveyor. Detached homes generally don't need this.
Is a loft conversion worth it in 2025/2026?
Yes, for most homeowners. A loft conversion adds 15-20% to property value (£50,000-£80,000 on a typical Hampshire home) while costing £40,000-£70,000. It's cheaper than moving and avoids stamp duty. ROI is especially good in areas with high property prices like Hampshire.
Do you need stairs for a loft conversion?
Yes, for a habitable room. Building Regulations require a fixed staircase (not a ladder) for any loft used as a bedroom or living space. The staircase must provide safe escape in case of fire. Ladders are only acceptable for non-habitable storage lofts.
Can you sleep in a converted loft?
Only if it meets Building Regulations. A loft bedroom must have: proper staircase access, fire doors, smoke alarms, adequate headroom (2.2m+), an escape window or protected route, and proper insulation. Sleeping in a non-compliant loft is unsafe and can affect insurance and property sales.
What is the 2.5 metre rule for loft conversions?
The 2.5 metre rule refers to permitted development limits. Under PD rights, a rear dormer cannot extend more than 2.5 metres beyond the original roof slope at its highest point. Exceeding this requires planning permission. Front dormers typically aren't allowed under PD at all.
Can I put stairs to my loft without planning permission?
Usually yes — internal alterations like staircases don't normally need planning permission. However, you will need Building Regulations approval to ensure the staircase meets fire safety and structural requirements. The position of the staircase and its impact on rooms below must be carefully planned.
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Get Started Today
Ready to transform your Hampshire home? Get free, no-obligation quotes from trusted local loft conversion specialists:
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> Compare prices from up to 3 vetted Hampshire specialists. Or call any company above directly.
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Last updated: February 2026 | Waterlooville.co — Hampshire's Local Directory
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