Short answer
The cost of an attic conversion in Ireland depends mostly on what you are building. A storage conversion (floor, insulation, rooflight and a fold-down ladder) is the cheapest. A habitable room needs a fixed stairs, a strengthened floor, fire-safe escape, insulation to the roof slope and certification, so it costs far more. A dormer adds again and usually needs planning permission. Phoenix Maco Ltd prices each attic after a free site visit in Dublin, with a written, itemised quote.
Key points
- Storage conversions cost much less than habitable rooms.
- A fixed stairs, new floor joists and fire safety work are the biggest costs.
- Dormers add structure, roofing and often planning permission.
- Certification by an architect, engineer or surveyor is part of the budget.
- A survey of the roof and landing tells you quickly what is possible.
Storage conversion vs habitable room
A storage conversion usually means flooring, insulation, lighting, a rooflight and a ladder. It is quick and affordable, but it is not a room you can legally describe as a bedroom.
A habitable attic must meet the Building Regulations: structure, fire safety and escape, a compliant fixed stairs, headroom, ventilation and energy performance. Each of those adds cost, which is why prices vary so much between quotes.
What changes the price
- Roof type: trussed roofs need structural redesign, traditional cut roofs are easier.
- Stairs: a fixed stairs takes landing space and may need a new opening.
- Floor: new or strengthened joists designed by an engineer.
- Fire safety: fire doors, fire-rated separation, interlinked smoke alarms, escape window.
- Insulation and ventilation on the roof slope.
- Rooflights or a dormer, and whether planning permission is needed.
- Finishes: plastering, electrics, heating, flooring and a shower room if wanted.
Planning permission and certification
Conversions inside the existing roof are often exempt from planning, but a dormer or change to the roof profile usually needs permission, especially to the front. Check with your local council before design.
Ask for an architect, engineer or building surveyor to inspect and certify compliance. Your solicitor will ask for it when you sell, and it is part of a proper budget.
How to get an accurate price
Send us photos of the attic, the landing and the roof from outside, plus your area. We follow up with a free site visit in Dublin and a written, itemised quote.
Frequently asked questions
- How much does an attic conversion cost in Ireland?
- It depends on whether it is storage or a habitable room, the roof type, stairs, fire safety work and whether you add a dormer. Storage conversions cost far less. Get a written quote after a site visit.
- Is a dormer more expensive than rooflights?
- Yes. A dormer adds structure, roofing and cladding, and usually needs planning permission. Rooflights are cheaper and are often exempt.
- Can a converted attic be a bedroom?
- Only if it meets the Building Regulations for fire safety, escape, stairs, headroom, structure and ventilation, and is certified.
- How long does an attic conversion take?
- A storage conversion can take days. A full habitable conversion usually takes several weeks, longer with a dormer.
- Do you do attic conversions in Dublin?
- Yes. Phoenix Maco Ltd works across Dublin and selected Leinster areas. Call or WhatsApp 083 874 5535 for a free site visit.
Official Irish sources
- Citizens Information — Building regulations
- Department of Housing — Building Regulations technical guidance
- Citizens Information — Planning permission
Rules, grant values and rates change. This article is general information, not professional advice — confirm the current position with the relevant body or your own architect, engineer or surveyor.