If you’re considering dormer roofs, the its best to understand your options, know any pros and cons, and understand if you’ll need planning permission. Dormer roofs are extensions built onto the existing roof of a building. These extensions are to convert loft space which would otherwise be to small and low to be of any real use.

Different Types of Dormer Roofs

The most common dormer roof structure is the ‘flat roof dormer’. This style provides the most head height, and external space of them all, whilst also being the cheapest option. A ‘shed dormer’ is also built with a single flat roof, but this is sloped forwards at an angle, similar to the original roof.

The ‘gable fronted dormer’, sometimes referred to as the ‘dog-house dormer’ is usually considered a more nice-looking option. This has a gable wall extension built up to the ridge line of the original roof, with a new section of roof being built outwards up to the new cable end.

Lastly, there is the ‘hipped roof dormer’. This is considered to be the best looking option, which consists of three sloping planes of hipped roof congregating at the ridge of the dormer. This style can blend in very well with the original build.

Pros 

• They offer a large amount of additional space with good head height to a room which wouldn’t necessarily be used otherwise.
• Flat roof dormers create a room with straight walls and a flat ceiling.
• They provide lots of extra natural light and ventilation for the top of your house.
• The space created is versatile and can have many uses, such as extra bedrooms, bathrooms, playrooms etc.
• You can choose a style dormer to suit most property styles that are in the UK such as terraced houses, modern detached, and post war semi-detached.

Cons

• Some people think that flat roofed dormers are not attractive on a house – but this is personal preference.
• Gable fronted and hipped roof dormers can be a more expensive option.

Do you need planning permission?

In most cases, planning permission is not needed, as having a dormer roof would fall under something called permitted development. However, it is essential you check just in case you do need to apply for planning permission. An example is, if your house/building is situated in a national park, a world heritage site, or an Area of Outstanding National Beauty, then you are required to apply for planning permission. If you have been given the go, it is also advised that you get a LDC (Law Development Certificate) which is written proof that the work you have done is lawful, should questions ever be asked.

What are the building regulations?

Building regulations approval is crucial for any conversion. You need this whether the work requires planning permission or not. This is to ensure that the structure of the build is definitely safe, looking at things such as stability, the structural strength, and sound insulation.