I would suggest if you know any people in the area who have had attic conversions done then ask them which architect they used, if they were satisfied of course. Otherwise you can get a couple of local architects round and ask them to quote, the architect will usually provide a ballpark overall build cost as part of the quote. You can either appoint a structural engineer through the architect or direct, the architect will usually be able to recommend a couple. There isn't much point in approaching an engineer until you have an idea of the proposed design, so I would start with the architect. In addition to access, the critical thing with any attic conversion is usually headroom - the architect will be able to advise you on what can be done to create maximum usable floor area.

It's a 3 story house at present and built in 95 so I'm hoping that means there shouldn't need to be any structural work done to the lower layers.. can you advise on whats the best first step - should I go for a structural engineer first to workout what other work might be needed and then an architect or does it work the other way around?

Thanks

It all mounts up:

- Professional Fees
- Council applications
- Structural alterations at ground, first and roof level
- Dormers formation/ roofing/ cladding/ roof drainage
- Insulation, thermal and acoustic
- Windows or rooflights
- Doors/ skirting/ facings
- Heating
- Plumbing
- Lighting
- Power
- TV/ Telecom
- New walls, coombs, formation and plastering
- Flooring, carpet
- Plasterboard
- Decoration
- Staircase and handrails
- Fittings and fixtures
- Roof vents
- Mechanical vents
- Fire safety requirements, i.e fire rated doors, self closers, mains smoke detectors etc
...not to mention labour.

And don't forget also that the formation of a new stairway usually means that areas of the first floor (or floor below attic level) also require works completed, redecoration etc.

Sure you can do a lot of the above yourself, but I would advise you to employ an Architect and Structural Engineer to complete the design, drawing production, authority approvals and provide guidance at the least.

Of course the above can be simplified if you just want to line the attic and use the space as a non-habitable room and put a ladder up. But then it isn't really a loft conversion.

I've got a mid terrace semi built circa 95 and the roof space looks massive and there is a suitable spot for the staircase over the existing stairs but those prices are a massive put off.

Can this work be done much more cheaply if you do more labour yourselves or are they raw material / planning costs?

Got 2 rooms and a bathroom out of it

Cost is entirely covered in the price of the house if that matters to you

Did it pre kids, wouldn't but much run living in the house with kids while it's happening