The hip-to-gable loft conversion – what is it?

Let’s start by explaining what we mean by hip to gable. Many properties will have a hipped roof which just means a roof that has a sloping side in addition to the slopes that there are at the front and back. What this also means is that the loft space that exists may be limited and that this type of conversion will be the only way to achieve an expansion of a property. The hip to gable loft conversion will achieve the extension to your property by putting a vertical wall known as a gable in place of the sloping roof. This will provide the space needed for the loft conversion. Once the work is complete it will have extended the area of the side roof so that the hipped roof that had previously had an inward slope has become a vertical wall that has turned it into a gable roof.

Having a hip to gable loft conversion will extend both sloping sides of the roof to create what is called a double hip to gable loft conversion. To really maximise the space it may be possible to add a rear dormer to your hip to gable conversion and this will allow for the maximum use of space.

This kind of conversion is ideal for semi-detached homes and detached homes and is also very popular on chalet type homes and bungalows. It's not really the conversion of choice on a mid-terraced property although it could be possible to carry it out on an end of terrace house. In particular 1930s homes lend themselves well to hip to Gable conversions.

Is planning permission needed for a hip to Gable conversion in London?

In fact most hip to gable loft conversions will fall within the permitted development regulations and so will not require the full planning permission. The exception to this is if your property is listed or in a conservation area where you will have to consult the council or local authority about what might be needed if you want to alter your property in this way. However, when your loft conversion is completed it will always need the building regulations approval.

How much Cost of a hip to gable loft conversion be?

The cost of a hip to Gable loft conversion will depend largely on what needs to be achieved. As a rough guide however a hip to gable conversion should cost anything between £42k and 50k however this is the basic cost for a loft conversion taken to a plaster finish and to include all plumbing electrics and heating but not internal fixtures and fittings like flooring or bathroom suites. Contact us at Loft London for a free no obligation survey when you will be informed of how much your loft conversion is likely to cost.

Ideas for your hip to Gable loft conversion London

As you would imagine at Loft London we have undertaken many hip to gable loft conversions each one personalised and customised to the client. We know that it is a very popular choice for giving more space a growing family and in the long run can be more cost effective than the upheaval of moving house. In a hip to Gable conversion you can create all the space you need with storage and other useful features. Designers will also give you the benefit of their experience with ideas for increasing light into your space and built in storage in nooks and crannies under eaves etc. Bathrooms are another area in which we are very experienced and our designers will be happy to talk through any ideas you have for your loft conversion bathroom.

How long will my hip to Gable loft conversion project take?

The typical time that a hip to gable loft conversion is likely to take is between a month and a half to around six weeks. We know that you will have many questions as you contemplate your hip to gable loft conversion so contact us now and set up your free no obligation survey when our surveyor will be happy to answer any questions that you have.