Blog
How to get the most room for your budget, what the rules allow, and what to ask before you sign a quote.
Case study: a rear dormer loft conversion in Bounds Green
How we turned the empty roof of a Bounds Green terrace into a bedroom and a bathroom, stage by stage, with photographs from the build.
6 min readHow long does a loft conversion take? (2026)
A rear dormer takes about 6 to 8 weeks on site, a mansard 10 to 12. How long each loft type takes to build, and the drawings and approvals that come first.
Loft conversionsHow much value does a loft conversion add? (2026)
Nationwide's 2025 research says a loft with a double bedroom and bathroom can add up to 24%. What that means for a north London terrace, with local sold prices.
CostsHow much does a lean-to extension cost in north London? (2026)
What a lean-to extension costs in north London in 2026: our recent single-storey quotes, London cost per m², the roof, planning, build time and fees.
Loft conversionsHow much does a loft conversion cost in London? (2026)
What a loft conversion costs in London in 2026: rooflight, dormer, hip-to-gable and mansard prices, our north London quotes (£70k to £85k inc VAT for a rear dormer) and the fees.
PlanningLoft conversions and permitted development in Barnet and Haringey: what you can build without planning
Most rear dormer lofts in Barnet and Haringey need no planning. The 40 and 50 cubic metre limits, conservation areas, Article 4 and each council's dormer rules.
PlanningDo I need planning permission for a rear extension in Enfield?
Usually not, for a single-storey rear extension in Enfield. Permitted development limits, prior approval, conservation areas, Article 4 and Building Regs.
CostsHow much does a rear extension cost in north London? (2026)
What a single-storey rear extension costs in Enfield, Barnet and Haringey in 2026: our recent quotes, London cost per m², fees and what moves the price.
Loft conversions7 ways to get more loft for your money
Where the money goes in a loft conversion, and the layout decisions that add usable space without adding much cost.
CostsWhat a rear extension really costs in 2026
Why the first metre is the expensive one, what sits outside most quotes, and how to compare builders fairly.
PlanningDo you need planning permission for a loft conversion?
Permitted development in plain English: the volume limits, the front slope rule and when you need a full application.
ExtensionsIs a side return infill worth it on a narrow terrace?
The smallest footprint of any extension, and often the one that changes daily life the most. Here's when it pays.
Loft conversionsRear dormer or hip-to-gable: which gives you more room?
How each one changes the shape of your roof, and why the answer depends on whether your side roof slopes.
ExtensionsBuild up or build out: which should you do first?
A loft and a rear extension solve different problems. If you can only do one now, this is how to choose.
PlanningParty wall notices, explained without the jargon
When you need to serve notice, how long your neighbours have to reply, and how to keep it friendly.