How much does a Velux loft conversion cost? (2026 guide)
Often called a Velux conversion after the popular window brand, this is the same as a roof light conversion, and it is the most straightforward way to turn a loft into a usable room. If your roof already has decent head height, it can be a fast and cost effective project. As FMB-registered builders with over 20 years of experience in Solihull and the West Midlands, we carry out roof light conversions from start to finish, and this guide explains the cost and where it works best.
What is a Velux loft conversion?
A Velux, or roof light, conversion fits windows directly into the existing slope of the roof, without building outward or changing the roofline. The existing roof shape stays exactly as it is, and the loft is insulated, floored, fitted with a staircase and finished as a room, with the new windows bringing in light. Because nothing changes on the outside beyond the windows, it is the least disruptive type of conversion.
How much does a Velux loft conversion cost?
The ranges below give a realistic guide for Solihull and the wider West Midlands. To keep pricing consistent, we treat Velux and roof light conversions as the same thing.
| Project | Indicative cost |
|---|---|
| Velux or roof light conversion | £28,000 to £45,000 |
| Dormer loft conversion | £40,000 to £65,000 |
| Hip to gable conversion | £45,000 to £70,000 |
Figures are indicative UK ranges to help you budget and are not a quote. Actual costs depend on size, specification and site conditions.
For how this compares with the other options, see our guide to loft conversion types.
Is a Velux loft conversion the cheapest option?
Yes. Because it keeps the existing roof structure and adds no dormer or gable, a roof light conversion involves the least building work of any loft conversion type, which makes it the cheapest and quickest. If your loft is suitable, it is the most budget friendly way to add a room.
Is my roof suitable for a Velux conversion?
The honest answer is that it only works where there is already enough head height in the loft. Since the roof shape does not change, a roof light conversion cannot create head height that is not already there. It suits properties with a tall, steep roof and plenty of space under the ridge. If your loft is low, a dormer or hip to gable conversion will give you the usable room you need instead. We assess this during a free site visit and tell you honestly which option fits your roof.
Do I need planning permission for a Velux loft conversion?
Roof light conversions rarely need planning permission, because they do not alter the shape or line of the roof, so they almost always fall under permitted development. They do still need building regulations approval for the structure, the staircase, insulation and fire safety, which we manage for you. Our planning permission guide explains the difference between the two.
What can you use a Velux loft conversion for?
A roof light conversion creates a bright, characterful room, thanks to the windows set into the slope of the roof. Common uses include a home office, a quiet study, a hobby or music room, a spare bedroom or a peaceful living space. Because the room follows the shape of the roof, it has a pleasant character of its own. If you need a full double bedroom with standing height throughout and your roof is on the lower side, a dormer may serve you better, but for many homeowners a roof light room is exactly the extra space they were missing.
Does a roof light conversion add value?
Any well finished loft conversion that adds usable space tends to add value, and a roof light conversion does so at the lowest cost of any type. Because the outlay is smaller, the return on investment can be very favourable where the roof suits it. The key, as with every conversion, is a proper building regulations sign off and a good quality finish, both of which we handle as standard.
How disruptive is a Velux loft conversion?
A roof light conversion is the least disruptive type of loft conversion, because the roof structure is not altered and there is no external building work beyond fitting the windows. Most of the work happens inside the loft, so the rest of the house can carry on largely as normal, with the main disruption coming when the new staircase is formed. There is no scaffolding for a major dormer build and no change to the outside of the property, which many homeowners appreciate.
How long does a Velux conversion take?
A roof light conversion is usually the quickest type of loft conversion, often completed in around four to six weeks on site depending on the specification. Explore our full conversions service for everything we offer.
Get a free quote
Every project is different, so the most reliable way to get an accurate price is a free, no obligation site visit. As FMB-registered builders based in Solihull, we will talk you through your options and give you a clear, itemised quote.
Call 07393 194 336Get a free quote