Semi-Detached Loft Conversion | Cost & Things to Consider

Admin
January 16, 2024

A loft conversion is among the most viable way to add space and value to your home. It can transform the whole house structure and add extra space that can be utilised for various purposes, such as an office, gym, or bedroom. Before taking a quote from a builder, it is advised to understand the costs and other concerns attached to the loft conversion. It will help you choose the best option according to your budget and prepare for the work to commence.

Difference Between Semi-Detached and Detached Homes

Before we dive into the costs and concerns involved in semi-detached loft conversion, it is better first to understand the difference between semi-detached homes and detached homes.

Semi-Detached Homes:

Several types of residential places are available in the UK to choose from. Semi-detached houses are one of the viable options for people with less budget and less privacy requirements. In this type of house, at least one property wall is attached to another neighbouring house, which is separately owned. It is considered a budget-friendly option as compared to other variants. A semi-detached house should cost you around £300K in the UK.

Detached Houses:

As the name suggests, the difference between detached and semi-detached houses is that there is no wall attached to another property in detached houses. It is considered a feasible variant for people with privacy requirements and children. They are also equipped with front and back gardens. A detached house price in the UK is approximately £495K.

Things to Consider for a Semi-Detached House Loft Conversion

A loft conversion can sometimes become a complex project to handle. It is wise to consider some important things before attempting any loft conversions in your semi-detached houses, such as

The first thing to consider is the structural integrity of your house. It would be best to ensure that the loft conversion has negligible to no effect on the house’s structure. If there are any changes to the structure, then there is a probability that you may need planning permission, which can be difficult and costly.
The second most crucial thing is headroom in the loft. Make sure that there is enough space for movement in the loft conversion. Otherwise, it will just be a waste of money.
Another vital thing to consider is the type of loft conversion and materials you choose for your semi-detached house. If you want a prolonged and solid loft conversion, the materials need to be high quality, waterproof, fire-resistant, and able to bear the weight load.
Choosing an experienced and trustworthy contractor is also an important step to consider. It is advised to always ask for previous projects, insurance information, and references because the more experienced the contractor is, the more odds there are for a solid and prolonged loft conversion.

The cost affiliated with Semi-Detached House Loft Conversions

Although loft conversion can add extra space to the house’s structure, it can sometimes be costly. Loft conversion in a semi-detached house could be a less burden on your pocket. A simple loft conversion cost in a semi-detached home is relatively less than other variants. In most cases, it does not even require planning permission. Some of the loft conversion types that can be constructed in semi-detached houses and their prices are explained below:

The Velux or Dormer loft conversions are the most common type most people use due to its minor load on the pocket and no requirements for planning permission. The average cost attached with Velux and dormer is around £22K-£30K and £40K-£60K, respectively.
Hip-to-Gable is considered the best option for your semi-detached house if you are looking for more space. Most semi-detached houses have a sloped roof, making them suitable for hip-to-gable loft conversion. The average cost of hip-to-gable loft conversion is between £40K-£60K, depending on the materials and design chosen.

Factors That Can Affect Loft Conversion in Semi-Detached Houses

Several factors can affect the cost or structure of loft conversion in semi-detached homes, some of which include:

The type of style or design chosen. Choosing a subtle style that does not impact the property’s elegance that much is a wise step.
Planning permission can also play its part in loft conversion choice and cost. Although more complex rules are involved, a pretty standard one is that the hight of loft conversion cannot exceed from the highest point of the existing roof.
Utilising the loft space for the bathroom and kitchen can also affect the cost. The bathroom and kitchen can be costly compared to an extra bedroom or studio space.
The water tank in the attic can also be a problem. It needs to be rerouted during loft conversion, which may involve extra plumbing cost.
Boiler can be another factor to consider, as the new space will require heat. If it is the kitchen or bathroom, it will also require hot water. So, it is better to check your boiler capacity.