Average Cost of a Side Extension?

You'll need to budget between £30,000 to £50,000 for a single-storey side extension, while double-storey projects typically range from £45,000 to £60,000. Material costs account for about 40% of your total budget, with additional expenses for planning permissions (£200-£250) and architect fees (£2,500-£5,000). Your project's timeline can span 12-15 weeks for single-storey builds, and proper planning will help you understand the complete investment landscape.

Types and Basic Price Ranges of Side Extensions

Three primary types of side extensions dominate the market, each with distinct price points that'll influence your home improvement budget.

When you're planning a side return, you'll find single-storey side extensions ranging from £30,000 to £50,000, while double-storey extensions typically start at £45,000 and can reach £60,000.

If you're considering a side return kitchen extension, you're looking at average costs of £37,500, plus roughly £9,500 for kitchen installation.

For those drawn to contemporary designs, glass side return extensions command premium prices at about £3,000 per square metre.

Victorian terraced houses present unique opportunities, with side extension costs spanning £30,000 to £150,000, depending on complexity.

The average cost varies considerably based on quality, from basic builds at £30,000 to premium finishes reaching £75,000.

Material Selection and Supply Expenses

Building materials form the foundation of your side extension's budget, typically accounting for about 40% of the total project costs.

When planning your side return extension, you'll need to carefully consider material costs across different quality levels, with basic quality extensions starting around £20,000 for materials alone.

Your roofing materials, including flat roof kits and essential components, will add approximately £450 to your total expenses.

For the main building work, you'll need about 450 blocks at £2 each, while insulation materials like Rockwool contribute another considerable portion to average construction costs.

Remember to factor in additional expenses for unforeseen circumstances, as material prices can fluctuate.

The quality of materials you choose will greatly impact your project's durability and value, with medium-quality extensions requiring around £35,000 in total investment.

Labour Costs and Project Timeline

While material costs form a significant portion of your extension budget, labour expenses often represent an equally substantial investment that requires careful consideration.

You'll need to account for architect fees ranging from £2,500 to £5,000 for your design plans, plus daily rates for various tradesmen.

Your project timeline will largely depend on the complexity of the job. Single-storey extensions typically take 12-15 weeks, while double-storey extensions extend to around 16 weeks.

Throughout the construction duration, you'll be working with general builders (£100-£150 per day), bricklayers (£75-£150), and specialized trades like electricians and plumbers (around £125 per day).

Each trade requires different timeframes – electricians might need 4-9 days, while foundation work typically takes four days with a concrete layer at £75 daily. Additionally, expert builders in Greater Manchester can provide valuable insights into managing your budget and timeline effectively.

Planning Permissions and Building Regulations

You'll need to secure planning permission for your side extension, which typically costs between £200-£250.

You should start this process well before your intended construction date.

Building regulations approval is equally essential, requiring various inspections throughout the construction phase to guarantee compliance with structural, safety, and energy efficiency standards.

It's worth considering hiring an architect to guide you through these requirements, as their expertise can help prevent costly mistakes and make sure your application meets all local authority specifications.

Required Planning Applications

Before initiating your side extension project, you'll need to navigate through two essential planning applications: planning permission and building regulations approval.

Your local authority will review your plans to guarantee they meet structural safety and energy efficiency standards while maintaining neighborhood aesthetics.

You'll need to budget £200-£250 for application fees, and expect around 8 weeks for planning approval.

It's wise to partner with a qualified architect or planning consultant, whose expertise typically costs 7-15% of total construction costs. They'll guide you through compliance checks and help prevent costly mistakes during the process.

Remember that most side extensions require planning permission, particularly if they notably alter your property's appearance.

Building regulations compliance is non-negotiable, guaranteeing your extension meets all safety and accessibility requirements.

Building Control Process

Maneuvering the building control process requires a thorough understanding of both planning permissions and building regulations, which work together to guarantee your side extension meets legal requirements and safety standards.

You'll need to budget £200-£250 for planning permission and £200-£600 for building control fees when starting your side return extension.

Don't forget the essential property survey, costing £300-£1,000, which you'll need before moving forward with the design process.

Your architectural fees will typically range from 7% to 15% of the total construction cost, ensuring professional oversight throughout the project.

With an average timeline of 35 days from survey to planning approval, effective project management is vital.

Understanding these requirements and costs upfront will help you navigate the building control process more confidently and efficiently.

Design Options and Quality Levels

When planning a side extension, understanding the available quality levels and design options will greatly impact your budget and final results.

You'll find that the average cost per square metre varies markedly, from £1,400 for basic builds to over £3,500 for premium finishes. Design complexity plays an important role in determining your final costs, especially when you're considering unique architectural features.

Basic side extensions (up to £30,000) offer functional space with standard materials
Medium-quality builds (around £35,000) provide enhanced finishes and better materials
Premium extensions (£45,000-£75,000) feature superior craftsmanship and luxurious materials
Glass side return extensions average £3,000 per square metre for stunning natural light

Whether you choose a single-storey or double-storey extension, investing in higher quality materials and design will add considerable value to your home.

Cost-Saving Strategies and Budgeting Tips

To effectively manage your side extension budget, implementing strategic cost-saving measures and thorough financial planning can make a significant difference in your project's success.

You'll want to start by creating detailed architectural drawings and obtaining proper planning permission, which helps prevent costly mistakes during your side return extension build.

Consider opting for simpler designs that'll reduce both materials needed and labor costs while still achieving your vision.

Don't skip getting at least three contractor quotes to guarantee competitive pricing, and you might want to hire a project management professional to oversee costs.

Remember to set aside a contingency fund of roughly 10% for unexpected expenses – it's better to have it and not need it than face budget shortfalls mid-construction.

This approach to budgeting will help keep your extension project on track.

Property Value Impact and Return on Investment

Smart financial planning leads naturally to contemplating your side extension's long-term value proposition. When you're considering the average cost of £30,000 to £65,000, it's reassuring to know that side extensions typically deliver a return of 1.5 to 2 times your investment, making them a sound financial decision for your property's future.

Well-executed extensions can boost property value by up to 20%
London properties see exceptional returns, averaging £150,000 in sought-after areas
Quality of build and design greatly influence your return on investment
Market conditions in your area affect the value increase potential

Your side extension's impact on property value largely depends on how well it integrates with your existing building.

Focus on high-quality design and construction to maximize your return and create lasting value.

Final Thoughts

While a side extension's average cost of £30,000-£50,000 might seem intimidating, you'll find it's a worthwhile investment that adds significant value to your property. Although some homeowners worry about disruption during construction, proper planning and phasing can minimize inconvenience. By carefully selecting materials, obtaining necessary permissions, and working with qualified professionals, you'll create additional living space that enhances both your home's functionality and market appeal.