Loft conversions
Kitchen extensios
Bathrooms & refurbishment
We specialise in 100% bespoke loft conversion design and build projects. Our surprisingly affordable projects are constructed in just a few weeks, based on designs drawn up to meet your specific needs. Loft conversion, extensions and bathrooms with a minimum of fuss and a maximum of satisfaction
Barnet Loft Conversion Company. The leading builder of loft conversion in North London.
We deliver quality loft conversions for clients in Barnet, throughout North London, West London, North West London and the EN + N + NW Postcode areas. Our concept through to completion service means we will design your loft conversion, build your loft room and then beautifully decorate. We take care of any relevant planning permission consents required before starting your loft conversion, and naturally building regulations are always dealt with.
At The Barnet Loft Company we specialise in high quality loft conversions and extensions, adding additional living space to your property, whilst at the same time increasing the value of your property. With increasingly high costs in moving home and in a short period of time, The Barnet Loft Company can introduce additional, valuable space to your residential address.
Working in London Area including:
Loft Conversions Barnet, Loft Conversions Central London, Loft Conversions Camden, Loft Conversions Enfield, Loft Conversions Hendon, Loft Conversions Finchley, Loft Conversions Highgate, Loft Conversions Totteridge, Loft Conversions Whetstone, Loft Conversions Crouch End, Loft Conversions Bounds Green
This could not only enhance the quality of your home life, but also adds considerable value to your property. Creating more living space with The Barnet Loft Company is a simple, cost effective way of making your home a better one!
The Barnet Loft Company is based in High Barnet and whilst predominately working in North London, Essex and Hertfordshire, we do also work around London area. We are dedicated to customer service and with a fully qualified team of professional staff; we guarantee our cutting-edge workmanship is simply unrivalled.
If you’re looking to introduce more space and add value to your property, look no further. With over 20 years experience, The Barnet Loft Company are your number one choice for loft conversions and attic refurbishments and bathrooms.
Converting Lofts in London including:
Loft Conversions Chelsea, Loft Conversions Queens Park, Loft Conversions Hampstead, Loft Conversions Nothing Hill, Loft Conversions Euston, Loft Conversions Kensington, Loft Conversions Muswell Hill, Loft Conversions Mill Hill, Loft Conversions Palmers Green, Loft Conversions Islington, Loft Conversions Edgware
How long does loft conversion take?
The timeline to complete loft conversions depends on multiple variables, including project size, type of conversions, and challenges faced during conversions. However, on average, a project can be completed in 6–12 weeks. The entire process of loft conversion is divided into different stages
North London Loft conversions Master bedroom loft conversion with ensuite in London, Hampstead NW11
Dormer loft conversion in North London.
Is it worth getting a loft conversion?
Increases property value: Adding a loft conversion can increase the value of your home by 20% typically. This provides a good return on investment if you ever sell. Makes better use of wasted space: Most lofts are just used for storage. Converting it allows you to get more practical use out of the space.
Loft Conversions Barnet.
Master bedroom loft conversion with ensuite in London
Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?
A loft conversion for your house is considered to be permitted development, not requiring an application for planning permission, provided certain limits and conditions are met.
2 Bedroom loft conversion in North London. Master bedroom and guest bedroom. London, Haringey N10
Do I need to move out during loft conversion?
You'll be glad hear that you won't need to move out during the build period; most of our projects are carried out while the owners are living in the property. A good loft conversion company will ensure that there is minimal disruption to the owners.
A loft conversion can be a great way to add space and value to your home, but there are several factors to consider before taking the plunge.
Here are 7 key things to think about:
1. Planning Permission and Building Regulations
Planning Permission: In some cases, a loft conversion may require planning permission, particularly if you're making significant changes to the exterior, such as adding dormer windows. It's essential to check with your local council whether permission is needed.
Building Regulations: Regardless of whether you need planning permission, your conversion must comply with building regulations, which cover safety, insulation, fire escape routes, and structural integrity.
2. Structural Feasibility
Roof Structure: The existing roof may need to be reinforced to support the new room. A structural engineer can assess whether your loft is suitable for conversion or if modifications are necessary.
Ceiling Height: To create a comfortable living space, you’ll need a minimum ceiling height of about 2.2 meters (7.2 feet). Measure your current space to ensure it’s suitable for a conversion.
3. Cost and Budget
Total Cost: Loft conversions can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of pounds, depending on the size, complexity, and type (e.g., dormer, mansard, or rooflight). Be sure to include costs for structural work, materials, labor, and any necessary upgrades (e.g., electrical work or plumbing).
Budget Flexibility: Always have a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. Costs can escalate if unforeseen issues arise during construction.
4. Impact on Property Value
Return on Investment: A well-done loft conversion can add significant value to your home—often up to 20% of the property’s value. However, the amount you recoup depends on the quality of the conversion, the market in your area, and how it fits into your home.
Market Appeal: If your area has many larger homes with conversions, a loft conversion could make your property more competitive. However, if your property is already on the smaller side or doesn’t fit the local market, the added space might not have as much appeal.
5. Access and Layout
Stairs and Access: Consider how you will access the loft space. If you need to add a staircase, you’ll need to ensure it doesn't take up too much space in the floor below. Space for a staircase should be carefully planned, as it can impact the overall layout of your home.
Flow and Functionality: Will the new loft space function well for your needs? Think about whether you want an additional bedroom, office, or living space, and how it fits with the existing layout of your home.
6. Natural Light and Ventilation
Windows and Lighting: Ensure that the loft will be well-lit and ventilated. Rooflights, dormer windows, or even Velux windows can help bring in natural light and provide good airflow, which is crucial for creating a pleasant living space.
Energy Efficiency: Consider the impact of your new conversion on the energy efficiency of your home. Proper insulation, double-glazed windows, and ventilation are important to prevent heat loss and ensure a comfortable living environment.
7. Noise and Privacy Considerations
Soundproofing: Depending on the nature of the conversion, you may want to consider soundproofing both the loft itself and the floors below. Noise can be an issue, especially if the loft is used as a bedroom or study.
Privacy: Think about the privacy of both your existing rooms and the new space. If your loft conversion is visible from neighboring properties or is overlooked, you may need to add privacy screens or adjust the window placement.
Before you begin your loft conversion project, carefully considering these factors will help ensure that the result is a valuable, functional, and well-integrated addition to your home.
Two Dormer loft conversion in North London. Master bedroom with ensuite.
What is the cheapest way to do a loft conversion?
Lowest cost: A rooflight conversion that simply involves fitting out the existing roof space, requiring limited structural alterations and the addition of insulation, plumbing and heating, staircase, plaster and decoration, will be the least expensive option.
Loft Conversion in Barnet. Loft Conversions North London. Loft Conversions Central London
You need more space in your home, but you can’t afford to move. Or maybe you would be perfectly happy with your home if only it was a bit bigger.
If you own a house, you have four main potential options: add a loft conversion, build an extension outwards, excavate a basement, or do a combination of those things.
Basements often aren’t possible, and can be very tricky. With a ground-floor extension, you are often faced with a trade-off: more house, less garden.
Which is why so many people are drawn to converting their lofts, which will also add to the value of your property. So here’s our ultimate guide to building a loft conversion with London and UK loft extension examples.
Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?
If you are wondering which loft conversion regulations apply to you, then you are not alone. There are so many rules and regulations that it can be hard to decide whether you should extend with or without planning permission.
Most of the time, you can convert your loft subject to specific limitations and conditions without applying for planning permission. You only need to make a certificate of lawfulness application to prove your development falls under permitted development rights for which your residential architect will need to prepare your loft conversion planning drawings and floor plans, and your application form.
What is a Certificate of Lawfulness?
When you don’t need planning permission, but want proof that your conversion or extension was covered by permitted development rights, you can apply to your council for a certificate of lawfulness (sometimes known as a lawful development certificate). This can be important when you decide to sell the property
Do I need a Party Wall Agreement for a loft extension?
Unless you have a detached house, you might need a Party Wall Agreement with your neighbours. Whether you do or don’t depends on whether your works will affect the walls that you share with the neighbours.
A simple roof light conversion probably won’t need their agreement, but other types of conversions often do. Your architect will be able to advise you.
Do I need building regulations approval for a loft conversion?
Yes, you will also require building regulations approval to convert a loft or attic into a habitable space so make sure your architect and your structural engineer prepare the necessary building regulations plans, and structural specifications and structural calculations.
Let’s not forget… Doing it on your own or skipping this step and heading straight to construction is certainly not advised as this could mean pocket-burning fines!
How much does a loft conversion cost in London?
Unsurprisingly how much a loft conversion costs varies depending on the scale and complexity of the work.
How much does a rooflight/basic room in the loft cost?
This is the cheapest type of conversion and will typically be somewhere in the region of £25,000-£40,000. With this type of renovation you can expect the floor to be reinforced, two skylights, a staircase for access, full electrics, fire safety measures and insulation.
How much does a dormer loft conversion cost?
You get all of the above with something like this plus the addition of dormer windows. Dormer roof construction increases floor space, adds height and gives you more natural light. They help with staircase access too.
You won’t get anything cheaper than £35,000 and if it’s a dormer conversion with a double bedroom and en suite you'll be looking at anywhere from £50,000 upwards.
How much does a hip-to-gable loft conversion cost?
At this point, you’re talking serious construction work. You will need scaffolding to be fitted with an appropriate cover as most of the roof structure will be removed – this will bump up the price. Here the time estimates of the contractor have to be realistic; if not the price can rise quickly.
Also as you will be raising the flank wall, you might have to build the wall in masonry, which may require a specialised trade such as bricklayers. It could be good to confirm the adequacy of the foundation of the existing flank wall before raising it. In London, you should be budgeting for at least £60,000 upwards.
How much does mansard conversion cost?
The scaffolding and parapet walls (or flank walls) issue will be similar to a hip-to-gable conversion but the amount of work will be even bigger.
Structurally it is also more complex and it may require cranked beams to be designed and appropriately installed on site. Depending on the site the length of the structural element has to be considered as it can sometimes be difficult to lift them up there in constrained locations.
Designing smaller elements and splicing longer pieces with the subsequent connection design is something that should be considered at an early stage. In London, you should be factoring in at least £100,000 and most likely substantially more.
Looking forward to your exciting new loft
We hope you have learned something from our ultimate guide to designing and building a loft conversion. We think that there are amazing possibilities for what you can do with your loft, and it can make a huge difference to your home.
While putting together this guide, we talked to clients, friends and family about their experiences of converting their lofts, and all of them – every single one – said they were happy that they had done it.
The secret to transforming the way you live might be sitting there, above you, unused right now…
Loft conversions Central London
L shaped Dormer loft conversion in Barnet. Master bedroom loft conversion with ensuite in London, Brent HA0
What houses can't have a loft conversion? What would make my house not suitable for a loft conversion?
The ceiling height is too low and raising the roof isn't possible.
You live in a listed building or conservation area where structural alterations aren't allowed.
Neighbours who you share a party wall with won't give their consent for the loft conversion.
L shaped loft conversion in Barnet. One bedroom loft, one study. Kensington & Chelsea
Is it worth getting an architect for a loft conversion?
No, it is not strictly necessary. However, leveraging an architect's expertise brings numerous benefits beyond simple construction. Architects can offer creative solutions to maximise space, ensure that the design meets all regulatory requirements, and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your conversion.
Loft Conversions Hammersmith & Fulham
What is the 10 year rule for loft conversion in North London?
Curious about the 10-year rule for loft conversions? In the UK, the 10-year rule refers to a planning regulation where, if a loft conversion or any other unauthorised development has been in place for 10 years or more without enforcement action, it becomes immune from enforcement.
Dormer loft conversion in Barnet. Master bedroom loft conversion with ensuite in North London, Ealing W5
How do I know if my loft is suitable for conversion?
There needs to be at least 2.2m between the top of the floor joists and the bottom of the ridge timber. This is so that there is at least 2m of headroom once new floors and beams etc have been fitted. You should also consider the headroom throughout the majority of the room. This is what is deemed a comfortable height.
How much does it cost to do a loft conversion in 2025?
In 2024 the average cost of loft conversion in London is between £45,000 and £90,000. Most Londoners convert an attic into a dormer because it adds extra space and light.
A loft conversion is a great way to add extra space to your home and increase the value of your property. A loft conversion is the type of construction work that requires lots of planning and preparation. Cost is one of the things you need to consider before converting your attic.
The roof conversion cost in London is different, unlike other cities in the UK. The prices of materials have significantly risen, and loft builders are still quoting you by the old prices. So you don't run away, and they can win your job. With the help of this guide, you can challenge your builder on the validity of their quote. Or to find out a ballpark figure before getting onboard with your loft conversion project.
Loft Conversion North London
As a general guide, a 35m2 conversion can cost from as little as £45,000 up to around £90,000 or more. Loft conversion costs, as you might expect, will depend upon a multitude of factors.
Barnet Loft Conversions in pictures in North London
Loft conversion process
The process of a loft conversion involves several stages, from initial planning and design to the final construction and finishing touches. Here’s an overview of the typical loft conversion process:
Initial Consultation and Feasibility Assessment
Architect/Designer Visit: The first step is to meet with an architect or designer who can assess the feasibility of converting your loft. They’ll evaluate the space, taking into account the roof structure, available head height, and the overall design.
Budget Discussion: The architect will also discuss your budget and help establish what can be done within your financial parameters. They’ll provide a rough estimate of the cost and time involved in the conversion.
Planning Permission & Regulations: Your architect will check whether planning permission is required and advise you on any building regulations that must be followed. In some cases, a loft conversion might fall under "permitted development" (subject to conditions), but this depends on the scope of the work and local regulations.
2. Design Stage
Detailed Plans: Once the feasibility is confirmed, your architect will create detailed designs for your loft conversion. This will include floor plans, elevation drawings, and sometimes 3D renderings of the final look.
Planning Application (if needed): If your project requires planning permission, the architect will prepare and submit the application to your local council. This process can take several weeks or months, depending on your location and the complexity of the design.
Structural Engineer: A structural engineer may be required to assess the strength of the existing roof and any structural modifications needed. They’ll provide the necessary calculations for the construction work.
3. Obtaining Permits
Planning Approval: If planning permission is required, this can take several weeks, depending on the council’s workload. During this time, neighbors may be consulted, and you may need to adjust your plans based on feedback.
Building Regulations Approval: Your architect or builder will also submit detailed plans to ensure the project meets building regulations. These cover safety, fire prevention, insulation, ventilation, and other important aspects of the conversion.
4. Pre-Construction Preparation
Hiring Contractors: Once the plans are approved, you’ll need to hire a contractor or building company to carry out the conversion. It’s essential to choose a reputable company with experience in loft conversions.
Timelines: The contractor will give you a project timeline, outlining when the work will begin and the expected completion date. Loft conversions can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the complexity and size of the project.
5. The Build
Clearing the Loft: Before work begins, the loft space will be cleared. This may involve removing old insulation, wiring, or unused items that are stored in the space.
Structural Work: If the roof structure needs to be reinforced (which is common), the first stage of the build will involve installing additional supports, beams, or structural framing to ensure the loft is stable and can bear the weight of the conversion.
Raising the Roof (if required): In some conversions, the roof may need to be raised or altered (e.g., installing dormer windows or extending the roofline) to provide adequate headroom or floor space.
Flooring and Partitioning: Once the structural work is complete, the flooring, walls, and partitions are built. This involves laying joists, creating new walls, and dividing the loft space into rooms (e.g., a bedroom, office, or bathroom).
Plumbing and Electrical: Any necessary plumbing (for bathrooms or radiators) and electrical work (for lighting, sockets, and switches) will be done at this stage. A certified electrician will ensure the wiring meets safety standards.
Insulation: Proper insulation is crucial for making the loft conversion comfortable and energy-efficient. Insulation is installed in the roof, floors, and walls, and sometimes additional soundproofing is added.
Roofing: The roof will be completed with new tiles or materials matching the existing structure, ensuring a seamless appearance.
Windows and Skylights: Rooflights or dormer windows will be installed to bring natural light into the new space and improve ventilation.
6. Finishing Touches
Interior Finishing: Once the basic structure is complete, the focus will shift to the internal finishes. This includes:
Plastering: Walls and ceilings will be plastered, smoothed, and painted.
Flooring: New flooring will be installed, such as carpet, hardwood, or laminate, depending on your preference.
Doors and Fixtures: Doors, handrails, and any necessary fixtures (e.g., built-in storage, shelving, or wardrobes) will be added.
Painting and Decoration: Finally, the space will be painted and decorated according to your tastes.
Bathroom Installation (if applicable): If you’ve planned for a bathroom in the loft, the fixtures and fittings will be installed, including a toilet, sink, shower, or bath.
7. Final Inspections and Sign-Off
Building Regulations Final Inspection: Once the work is completed, a final inspection by a building control officer may be required to ensure the conversion complies with all relevant regulations.
Completion Certificate: After passing the final inspection, you’ll receive a completion certificate, which is essential if you ever sell your home.
Cleaning and Handover: The builder will clean up the site, removing any debris or leftover materials, and hand over the finished space.
8. Post-Construction
Settling In: After the work is done, it’s time to enjoy your new space! Keep in mind that you might need to allow a few weeks for the space to fully settle (e.g., doors and windows may need adjusting, or minor issues might arise).
Warranty: Many loft conversion companies offer a warranty on their work. Be sure to check the terms, as this can cover structural issues or defects that may arise in the first few years.
Things to Keep in Mind During the Process:
Communication: Regular communication with your builder or contractor is key to ensuring the project stays on track and that any issues are addressed promptly.
Contingency: Unexpected issues (e.g., structural problems or delays due to weather) can arise, so be prepared for changes in the timeline or budget.
Disruption: Converting a loft can cause disruption to your home, particularly if the work is extensive. Consider how you will manage daily life during the build.
A well-managed loft conversion can add significant value and functionality to your home, and while it involves a fair amount of planning and effort, the end result is often well worth it!
Barnet Loft Conversion - Hampstead NW11
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LOFT bedroom in Barnet
Stunning loft conversion in High Barnet, North London comprising of a master bedroom and ensuite was built to a high specification. We worked closely with our clients to achieve the highest standard finishes including a oak/ glass staircase and bespoke timber windows and shutters.
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LOFT bathroom in Barnet
Our client in Barnet required master bedroom in loft conversion to maximise the available space. We created a new master bedroom in the loft conversion, with walk in wardrobes and master bathroom with free standing bath. Read more about this amazing loft conversion in Barnet.
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LOFT dormer in Barnet
This loft conversion in Barnet included built in wardrobes and a bespoke bathroom. The property was extended to the rear to create an open plan kitchen extension with patio doors opening to the rear garden.
Where we do loft conversions?
Loft conversions in Barnet, Loft conversions in Enfield, Loft conversions in Camden, Loft conversions in Haringey, Loft conversions in Hackney, Loft conversions in Brent, Loft Conversions in Kensington, Loft conversions in Chelsea, Loft conversions in Hammersmith, Loft conversions in Ealing, Loft conversions in Islington, Loft conversions Central London, Loft Conversions Westminster
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