In short: An HMO loft conversion adds one or two letting rooms, often with an ensuite, in the roof space. In City of Edinburgh we survey first, price each item separately and hand over the certificates and photos a council asks for.
- Nation
- Scotland
- Pricing region
- Scotland
- Postcode areas
- EH
- Main towns
- Edinburgh
What do loft conversions for extra rooms in City of Edinburgh involve?
- Building control sign-off
- New stair within the protected route
- Ensuite where space allows
- Dormer or roof windows
- Fire doors and extended alarm system
- Structural design and steelwork
Which rules apply in City of Edinburgh?
- Scotland has no C4 use class: up to 5 residents can fall within Class 9 (houses), and HMO planning policy is set by each council, some of which require permission at lower numbers.
- A building warrant may be needed for a change of use or for installing a fire alarm system; check with the council’s building standards service.
- Councils set HMO fire standards through licence conditions, often including emergency lighting in larger HMOs.
- Room sizes are set by each council; East Lothian, for example, uses 6.5 m² for a single room with a shared lounge and kitchen, and 10 m² without.
- Every HMO needs a council licence: 3 or more people who are not all from one or two families, sharing basic amenities. Licences last up to 3 years.
How much do loft conversions for extra rooms cost in City of Edinburgh?
| Item | UK typical | Local guide | Per |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dormer loft conversion, about 30 m² | £40,000 – £60,000 | £38,000 – £57,000 | project |
| Rooflight loft conversion, about 30 m² | £22,500 – £30,000 | £21,400 – £28,500 | project |
Typical time on site: 6–10 weeks. For a figure for your house, try the guide-price tool.
Loft conversions for extra rooms by town in City of Edinburgh
Questions about loft conversions for extra rooms in City of Edinburgh
Does a loft room need a fire escape window?
In an HMO the main protection is usually a protected stair and fire doors. The building regulations and fire strategy decide the detail.
How much head height do I need?
As a rule of thumb, about 2.2 metres at the highest point of the existing roof space before any work. Less can work with a dormer or lowered ceilings.
Do you carry out loft conversions for extra rooms across City of Edinburgh?
Yes, across the whole of City of Edinburgh, including Edinburgh.
Who licenses HMOs in City of Edinburgh?
City of Edinburgh council licenses HMOs in its area. Every HMO in Scotland needs a licence.
Other HMO services in City of Edinburgh
- Extensions for extra rooms in City of Edinburgh
- Large HMO conversions (7+ sharers) in City of Edinburgh
- Escape routes, emergency lighting and fire stopping in City of Edinburgh
- Ensuite installation in City of Edinburgh
- Layout changes and room reconfiguration in City of Edinburgh
- Fire alarm and detection systems in City of Edinburgh
- Professional and co-living HMO refurbs in City of Edinburgh
- Damp, mould and HHSRS repairs in City of Edinburgh