Financing attic conversion: How to create new living space
29 Apr 2025
Katrin Straub
Managing Director at nextsure
Unused space under the roof is wasted potential. Converting it not only creates valuable living space but can also increase the value of your property by up to 15 percent. But how can such a project be managed?
The topic in brief and concise terms
The cost of converting an attic averages around 1,000 euros per square metre, but can vary significantly depending on the features.
Government subsidies, particularly from KfW, can significantly reduce the financial burden with grants of up to 37,500 euros.
A building permit is usually required, and the home insurance must be adjusted after the conversion to avoid underinsurance.
Die Finanzierung für den Ausbau des Dachbodens zum Wohnraum stellt viele Eigentümer vor eine Herausforderung. Die Kosten können, je nach Umfang und Ausstattung, schnell 50.000 Euro übersteigen. Eine sorgfältige Planung ist daher entscheidend. Dieser Artikel zeigt Ihnen, wie Sie die Kosten realistisch kalkulieren, welche Finanzierungsoptionen Ihnen zur Verfügung stehen und wie Sie staatliche Förderungen optimal für sich nutzen. Wir führen Sie von der ersten Idee bis zur erfolgreichen Finanzierung Ihres neuen Wohnraums.
Calculate costs realistically
The costs for converting an attic vary greatly and depend on many factors. A simple conversion can start at €5,000, while a complete redesign with bathroom and dormers can cost up to €100,000. Experts estimate an average of €1,000 per square metre for a quality conversion. For a building permit, which is often required, approximately 0.5 percent of the total construction costs are applicable. Additionally, allocate an extra two percent of the construction sum for an architect or structural engineer to secure the building measures. A detailed cost breakdown is the first step towards solid construction financing. This planning not only secures the budget but also forms the basis for applying for loans and funding.
Cleverly combine financing components
There are several ways available to finance your loft conversion. Such a project is rarely paid for entirely out of equity. A popular option is the building savings contract, where you receive a low-interest loan after the saving phase. Alternatively, a special renovation loan is available, which you can often apply for online with ease. For larger sums over 50,000 euros, a mortgage loan is usually the cheapest choice, as your property acts as security. The combination of different types of financing is often the key to success. In this way, you can combine equity with a building savings loan and state subsidies. The right mix depends on your financial situation and the scope of the project, which is why a detailed comparison of the terms is essential.
Make full use of government grants
The government supports the creation of housing, particularly when energy standards are met. The Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) is the primary point of contact here. With the program “BEG Residential Buildings (261)” you can obtain low-interest loans up to 150,000 euros and repayment subsidies of up to 37,500 euros. There are also grants for individual measures such as new insulation. Another option is the KfW program “Age-Appropriate Conversion (159)” if you want to achieve accessibility. It is important to submit the applications before starting the construction work. A professional energy consultation, which is also subsidized, helps you find the right programs and meet the requirements. This way, you ensure substantial financial relief for your project, such as a new roof covering.
Expert Depth: Legal and Insurance Aspects of Construction
An attic conversion is more than just a construction project; it also has legal implications. As soon as you change the roof pitch or the floor area, you need a building permit from the relevant building authority. Building without a permit is considered illegal and can lead to hefty fines. Our expert tip: Be sure to clarify the permissibility in advance with an architect. After the conversion, the value of your property increases, which requires an adjustment to your buildings insurance. Report the newly created living space to your insurer to avoid underinsurance and ensure full protection. This safeguards your investment of several tens of thousands of euros in the long term.
The final step: Successful implementation and safeguarding
Once the financing is secured and the permits are granted, the actual construction phase begins. Good project management by an architect ensures the quality and adherence to the budget, which often amounts to tens of thousands of euros. Remember that outdoor facilities, like in facade insulation, may also be affected. After the work is completed, the building acceptance follows. Only then is the new living space officially usable. With solid financing and professional support, your attic conversion will become a value-enhancing and future-proof investment. Request an individual risk analysis now: Have your insurance situation checked for free and receive specific suggestions for optimization.
More useful links
KfW offers detailed information on the promotion of energy-efficient renovation measures for private individuals in existing properties.
The Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) provides comprehensive statistics on housing in Germany.
The Federal Ministry of Finance provides information on tax relief for household services and construction services.
At Gesetze im Internet, you can find the full Buildings Energy Act (GEG) for energy savings and the use of renewable energy in buildings.
FAQ
Wie hoch sind die Kosten für eine Baugenehmigung beim Dachausbau?
Die Gebühren für eine Baugenehmigung belaufen sich in der Regel auf etwa 0,5 Prozent der gesamten Baukosten des Projekts.
Kann ich den Dachbodenausbau selbst durchführen, um Kosten zu sparen?
Ja, Eigenleistung kann Kosten sparen. Jedoch sollten Arbeiten wie Elektrik, Heizungsinstallation oder statische Eingriffe immer von Fachfirmen ausgeführt werden, um Sicherheitsstandards und Gewährleistungsansprüche zu sichern.
Muss ich meinen Versicherungsschutz nach dem Dachausbau anpassen?
Unbedingt. Der neu geschaffene Wohnraum erhöht den Wert Ihrer Immobilie. Melden Sie die Wertsteigerung Ihrer Wohngebäudeversicherung, um eine Deckungslücke im Schadensfall zu vermeiden.
Welche Rolle spielt ein Energieberater bei der Finanzierung?
Ein zertifizierter Energieberater ist Voraussetzung für die Beantragung vieler KfW-Fördermittel. Er bestätigt die Einhaltung der energetischen Standards und hilft Ihnen, die maximalen Zuschüsse zu erhalten.
Was ist der Unterschied zwischen einem Modernisierungskredit und einer Baufinanzierung?
Ein Modernisierungskredit ist oft für kleinere Summen (bis ca. 50.000 Euro) gedacht und erfordert nicht immer einen Grundbucheintrag. Eine Baufinanzierung (Hypothekendarlehen) ist für größere Projekte, hat meist niedrigere Zinsen, wird aber durch eine Grundschuld auf die Immobilie abgesichert.
Wann muss ich den Antrag auf KfW-Förderung stellen?
Der Antrag auf Fördermittel muss immer vor Beginn der Baumaßnahmen gestellt und genehmigt werden. Eine nachträgliche Förderung ist in der Regel nicht möglich.
