Loft Conversion Insurance: What You Need to Know

At The Loft Build Company one of the most common questions we get asked (especially by homeowners embarking on their first major home improvement) is: “Do I need special insurance for my loft conversion?” The short answer? Yes, you do. Whether you're planning a dormer, Velux or full mansard extension, having the right loft conversion insurance in place is essential to protect your property, your investment and your peace of mind.

With years of experience Emmet and our trusted team can support clients through every stage of their loft build journey including helping them navigate the less glamorous (but crucial!) elements like insurance.

Why Is Loft Conversion Insurance Important?

A loft conversion is a major structural project. It involves altering your roof, your home’s layout and sometimes even its footprint. Standard home insurance often won’t cover you during construction which means if something goes wrong such as a fire, a flood or an injury you could be liable for damages or costs out of pocket. Loft conversion insurance is designed to protect your home and your finances before, during and after the build.

Do You Need to Tell Your Insurance Company About a Loft Conversion?

Yes – always. Not informing your insurer could invalidate your current home insurance policy. When you start planning your conversion you should notify both your buildings and contents insurance providers. They may advise you to take out additional cover during the construction phase or adjust your policy after the work is complete, especially if your home’s value increases.

When Does Loft Conversion Insurance Begin?

There are two key phases to consider:

1. During the Build

This is where contract works insurance (also called construction insurance) comes into play. If you're working with us we’ll always carry our own liability and structural insurance but it’s still important for you to ensure your home is covered too. Some of the risks this type of cover protects against include:

• Theft of materials

• Accidental damage to your home

• Fire or water damage during construction

• Injury on-site (public liability cover)

If you're hiring multiple contractors or using a self-managed approach you'll definitely need to check who is responsible for each part of the cover.

2. After the Build

Once the project is complete you may need to update your standard home insurance to reflect:

• The increased rebuild cost of your home

• Additional rooms or bathrooms (which can impact your contents policy)

• Increased property value

What Is Indemnity Insurance for Loft Conversions?

Indemnity insurance is a specific kind of policy usually used when planning permission or building regulations haven't been fully complied with, especially in past projects. For example, if you're selling your home and the buyer queries a past loft conversion with no sign-off paperwork you might take out an indemnity policy.

While this doesn't replace full compliance it can offer some protection against enforcement action. That said, when working with The Loft Build Company we always ensure our lofts meet full UK Building Regulations so you’re unlikely to need this unless you’re dealing with past works.

How Much Does Loft Conversion Insurance Cost?

It varies based on:

• The size and value of the project

• The level of cover you need

• Whether you stay in the property during the works

You might expect to pay between £100–£500 for a short-term policy covering the construction phase and more for long-term structural warranties (like 10-year guarantees). We always recommend speaking to your home insurance provider early on or contacting a specialist insurance broker for a tailored quote.

Protecting Your Investment - The Loft Build Company Way

At The Loft Build Company our team is led by Emmet and backed by years of experience. We know how important it is to handle your project from a professional, protected standpoint. We’re fully insured and we work only with trusted, insured contractors. We also guide you through every step of the process from planning permission and building regulations to final sign-off.

Want to learn more about the types of loft conversions we build? Visit our Loft Types pages or explore our service areas in London and Surrey. You can also check out other articles on The Loft Edit, our blog packed with expert advice just like this.

Final Thoughts

Loft conversion insurance might not be the most exciting part of the process but it’s one of the most essential. With the right cover in place you can move forward with your dream space knowing you’re protected at every stage.

Need help or have questions about your project? Get in touch today — we’re always happy to offer no-obligation advice.

0208 129 0976

info@theloftbuildcompany.co.uk