How Much Does a Loft Conversion Cost? [2025 Data]

Converting a loft can add value and more usable space to your home. The average loft conversion cost ranges from $9,000 to $34,500 to remodel an existing loft, with most homeowners spending an average of $20,000. However, prices can climb to $67,600 for the design and creation of a new loft using high-end materials. Learn all the loft conversion cost factors and ways to manage your project’s budget.

Converting an Existing Loft vs. Adding a New Loft

A loft conversion can mean different things to different homeowners. For some, the project may involve renovating or remodeling an existing loft space. To others, a loft conversion means opening up attic space to add living square footage. This second idea can often include altering the home's roofline by adding a dormer.

The average cost to finish an attic and turn it into a living space is between $10,000 and $50,000. The wide range is due to the large number of variables involved. Loft conversion has a similarly wide cost range and can include even more variables, depending on whether you're converting an existing space or adding a new one.

Loft Use

The most significant factor when determining the cost of a loft conversion project is the purpose of the space. The steps and cost when converting a loft into a bedroom are quite different than if you aim to simply add storage space.

Additionally, while the cost difference between creating a home office and a workout space can vary quite a bit, if the plan involves plumbing, such as when adding a bedroom suite with a bathroom, the price will increase dramatically.

Here's a look at the average per-square-foot costs of loft conversion based on its use. Remember that other factors can heavily influence the normal cost ranges.

Size 

While the size of your loft conversion matters in terms of pricing, the correlation between size and cost can be misleading. 

Alterations to the roof, the condition of an existing loft or attic, insulation needs, and material choices can mean that a 150-square-foot loft conversion can cost as much as a 500-square-foot one, depending on the specifics of the job. 

Use the size of your conversion project as a starting point to help you gauge its scope and cost as you plan. 

Materials

Materials are often the number one cost factor in any major home project and can represent 40% to 50% of a project's price tag. However, because most loft conversions deal with a smaller space than many other types of remodeling or renovation projects, material costs for loft conversions fall on the lower end of that scale.

That said, choosing lower-cost materials, such as an inexpensive carpet over a real-wood floor, can shave hundreds or even thousands off the project price. This fact holds true for many of the materials you'll use in your conversion, with the exception of rough-in electrical, plumbing, and HVAC if those are part of the plan. 

Designer and Architect Costs

Most homeowners will include the cost of hiring an architect in their loft conversion plans. Having an architect's drawings and plans can ease the permit application process. The blueprints will also ensure that each tradesperson on the job knows precisely what to do. Finally, an architect can often supply ideas for the space that many homeowners might not think of. Expect the cost of having an architect to range from $2,000 to $6,000.

Because loft conversions are often relatively small, it may also make sense to budget for the cost of an interior designer. Doing so can cost between $50 and $200 per hour, but it could be the difference between just adding another room and creating a truly functional living space. 

Structural Engineer Cost

For many loft conversions, especially when the plans call for altering the home's roof, your municipality may require an attic inspection and a signature on the building plans from a structural engineer before issuing the required building permit. In fact, the city may require the engineer to review the entire project and the existing house structure. 

Expect the average cost of hiring a structural engineer to be between $70 and $250 per hour. Hiring one may not only be necessary, but it's also a good idea to ensure the home's structure can handle the added stresses of a new living space.  

Carpenter Cost 

In most situations, a carpenter will be necessary when converting your loft. The average cost to hire a carpenter is between $75 and $100 per hour, with the exception of cabinetry installation prices or other specialty work that often has pricing that varies from that range.

HVAC Installer Cost

The loft space you're converting may or may not already have adequate HVAC. However, in most cases, you'll need to add it by rerouting ductwork, installing a mini-split system, or opting for a window air conditioner.

• Mini-split system installation costs: $2,000–$14,500

• HVAC duct rerouting costs: $1,500–$9,000

• Window air conditioner costs: $140–$525 each

Plumber Costs

If your loft conversion plans call for a bathroom installation, you'll need a plumber to run supply and drain lines for fixture installations. However, even if you're not adding a bathroom in your loft, hiring a plumber may be necessary to move existing lines and vent pipes to accommodate the new space. This case is especially true if the loft will be in an existing attic space. Here are some costs to consider.

• Rough-in plumbing for a bathroom costs: $1,600–$2,900 

• Installing a sink costs: $220–$645

• Shower installation costs: $500–$3,000

• Toilet installation costs: $225–$535

• Faucet installation costs: $160–$365 each

• Plumbing vent rerouting costs: $900–$3,000

Electrician Costs 

Most loft conversions will include updating electrical fixtures or adding new wiring, outlets, and features. The costs for an electrician's services will depend on the scope of the electrical work. Because of the new electrical demands that can come when converting a loft, you may also need to have an electrician install a subpanel for the space. 

• Outlet installation costs: $130–$300 each

• Installing a light fixture costs: $155–$955 each

• Installing a dedicated circuit costs: $570–$1,000

• Adding a subpanel costs: $400–$2,000

Insulation Installation Cost

The amount of insulation you'll need to install for your loft conversion depends on the scope of the rest of the project. For an existing loft, no further insulation may be necessary. On the other hand, altering the roof or attic may require the addition of a substantial amount of insulation. There are several types of insulation to choose from, and one may be better than others, depending on the climate and building code requirements in your location.

Drywall Installer Cost

Another cost that's at least partially dependent on the scope of your loft conversion project is drywall installation. The cost of professional drywall installation, including materials and labor, is about $1.50 to $3 per square foot of wall and ceiling. More challenging installations, such as ones on angled ceilings and in small spaces common in loft situations, can cost more due to the extra time it takes to complete the work. 

Wall Finisher Costs

Unless your new loft is strictly for storage and you cover the walls with a durable material other than drywall, it will require some finishing work. Paint, wallpaper, paneling, and tile are common finishes. 

• Painting costs: $2.75–$4.70 per square foot

• Wallpapering costs: $315–$820

• Tile installation costs: $5–$45 per square foot

• Paneling installation costs: $1–$40 per square foot

Flooring Installation Cost

Choosing a flooring material for your new loft may come down to both functionality and price. Fortunately, most loft conversions are somewhat small in comparison to the rest of the house, so prices might not be as shocking as expected. You can save even more cash if you're able to reuse existing material or opt for less expensive varieties of attic flooring.

General Contractor Cost 

Managing your loft conversion project yourself can shave significant dollars off the price of hiring a general contractor to perform the work. However, hiring one offers numerous benefits, including their expertise, which can save money in the long run by ensuring proper construction overall. 

Hiring a general contractor adds between 10% and 40% of the total price of materials and labor to the project's cost. However, many homeowners find that the price is well worth the time they save by handing the project off to a pro.

Additional Cost Factors

Several other loft conversion cost factors exist regardless of the size, use, or structure of your new space. 

Demolition and Prep 

Whether or not you need to make structural changes to the home, there's plenty of work that needs to be completed before a loft conversion can begin. If you are making roofing or structural changes, at least some level of demolition will be necessary. Expect costs of between $50 and $100 per hour for demolition or other prep work. 

Permits

Your loft conversion will require obtaining building and mechanical permits for the work. Another benefit of hiring a general contractor is that they will get and manage the necessary permits for you as part of the contract. Should you choose to get them yourself, expect costs of between $500 and $3,000 for the building permit. Additional mechanical permits, depending on the scope of the project will cost between $10 and $500 each. 

Post-Construction Cleanup

Once your new living space is converted, you can hire a construction cleanup service to handle all of the remaining dust and debris. The cost of construction cleanup ranges from $140 to $700.

Financing Costs

If your’re financing this home addition project, remember to add the cost of borrowing the money, such as monthly interest and principal payments, to the price of the endeavor. Remember that borrowing from an investment account can also carry costs in terms of reduced returns.  

Why You Should Hire a Loft Conversion Pro

Hiring home remodelers near you to manage and complete the work for a loft conversion will increase your budget by 10% to 40% of your total project cost. Most homeowners find this additional cost well worth it, since remodelers handle every aspect of this complex project, ensuring that the finished loft is safe and adheres to all building codes.

Here’s why it’s ideal to hire a loft conversion pro

Converting a loft is a major project with many moving parts that are best handled by a pro for the following reasons:

• Loft conversion specialists know how to maximize efficiency in small spaces.

• They'll ensure the safety and structural integrity of the build.

• A professional will take care of all necessary permits and inspections.

• They will ensure that the new loft adheres to all building codes and local regulations.

• A contractor will take care of hiring and scheduling subcontractors and tradespeople.

• Reputable contractors will offer warranties on their work.

• Some tasks, such as electricity and plumbing, must be completed by licensed pros.

• A professionally converted loft will maximize the value added to the home.

• Professional loft conversion is a seamless process that minimizes stress.

If you want to DIY loft conversion

If you're interested in some DIY and want to participate in the loft conversion process, you can focus on smaller tasks such as:

• Painting walls and trim

• Installing built-in furniture such as shelving

• Furnishing and decorating

• Installing click-and-lock flooring in small spaces

Loft Remodeling vs. Loft Renovation

If your home has an existing loft, you may face a decision to remodel it by making significant changes to improve its functionality or renovate it to add some updated touches and give it a fresh new feel. 

While the cost of remodeling the space is often more than renovating it, the outcome can be the difference that makes one more worth it than the other. A loft remodel will cost a minimum of roughly $7,000, while a renovation with new flooring, paint, and maybe some new furniture can cost around $1,000 if you're willing to add some elbow grease.  

Remodeling Benefits

• Remodeling can completely change the layout and functionality of the space.

• Updating old electrical or plumbing is easily possible when walls are open.

• You have the potential to add a dormer and more floor space.

• Remodeling includes the option of adding a bathroom.

Renovation Benefits

• Renovations often cost far less than remodeling.

• Simple renovations may not require building permits and inspections.

• A renovation can make the space feel new even though the primary structure still exists.

• It’s a repeatable project that can happen when updating is necessary again.

Tips to Reduce the Cost of Loft Conversion

Loft renovation costs are highly variable based on numerous factors. For that reason, there are several ways you can reduce the total price of the project.

• Perform some of the work yourself. Prep work, painting, and even drywalling are good candidates for places to save cash.

• Consider using discounted, upcycled, or recycled materials where possible. Discuss this money-saving method with your contractor first, though, to ensure compatibility and whether some products are usable. 

• If budgeting is a concern, consider reducing the scope of the project. Ideas like avoiding work in areas where plumbing exists can lower one aspect of the job. 

• Consider scaling back on custom finishes in exchange for off-the-shelf versions of features like cabinets and shelving. 

Does Loft Conversion Increase Home Value?

Anytime you add stylish and functional living space to a house, its value is likely to increase. Loft conversions not only can add living space but can do so with popular appeal, which is also good for selling. Many homeowners who add, remodel, or renovate their loft spaces realize returns of between 10% and 20%. 

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We extensively research project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We rely on reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

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