Hip to Gable Loft Conversion
What is a Hip to Gable Loft Conversion?
A hip-to-gable loft conversion is a popular UK loft extension where the sloping hipped roof end of a house (typically on a semi-detached or end-terrace property) is rebuilt into a vertical gable wall to create significantly more headroom and usable floor space in the loft.
Frequently Asked Questions
We hope this page provides clear and helpful answers for those considering a loft conversion who may have numerous questions about the process; we are here to make your decision as straightforward and informed as possible.
1
How much value does a hip-to-gable loft
conversion add to my home?
A well-built hip-to-gable loft conversion can increase your property's value by 15–25% (often £50,000+ in the South East), providing extra bedrooms or living space without the hassle of moving — it's one of the most cost-effective home improvements with strong ROI.
2
Is my house suitable for a hip-to-gable loft conversion?
Your house is likely suitable for a hip-to-gable loft conversion if it has a hipped roof (sloping sides), is semi-detached, detached, end-of-terrace, or a bungalow and meets basic rules like sufficient loft height (around 2.2m+), no conservation area restrictions, and not being a flat or mid-terrace home.
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We can check your property for free — contact us for a quick site visit!
3
How much does a hip-to-gable loft conversion
cost in Sussex?
A hip-to-gable loft conversion in Sussex typically costs £50,000–£75,000 in 2026, depending on your home size, finishes, extras like an en-suite, and local factors such as coastal conditions.
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For a precise quote tailored to your property, contact us for a free site visit — we're local experts ready to help!
4
How long does a hip-to-gable loft conversion
take ?
A hip-to-gable loft conversion typically takes 8–12 weeks from start to finish, depending on your home size, any extras like an en-suite, and weather conditions in Sussex.
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We aim to keep disruption to a minimum — contact us for a free site visit and personalised timeline!
5
Do I need planning permission for a hip-to-gable
loft conversion?
Most hip-to-gable loft conversions in Worthing and Sussex fall under permitted development and do not need planning permission, as long as they meet standard rules (e.g., no more than 40 cubic metres added volume for terraced/semi-detached homes, no front dormers, and no changes to the roof height).
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However, some properties (like those in conservation areas, listed buildings, or flats) may require permission — we always check for you during our free site visit!
6
Can I stay in my home during a loft
conversion?
Yes, most homeowners can live in their home during our hip-to-gable loft conversions, as the work is mainly in the loft and we take extra care to keep disruption low, with minimal impact on your daily life.
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We’ll keep your home clean, safe, and habitable throughout the 8–12 weeks — contact us for details on how we make it easy for you to stay put!
7
Can we have side windows on the gable end?
Yes, you can have side windows on the new gable end in a hip-to-gable loft conversion — they're a great way to add natural light and ventilation to your extra space, and many projects in Worthing and Sussex include them successfully.
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Under permitted development rules (which most hip-to-gable conversions follow), side-facing windows on the gable must be obscure-glazed (frosted/privacy glass) and non-opening if below 1.7m from the floor level — this prevents overlooking neighbours and keeps things compliant without needing planning permission in most cases.
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We always design windows to meet these rules while maximising light — contact us for a free site visit to check your property and discuss options!
