How Long Does it Take to Build a House Extension?

How long will it take to plan and build a house extension?

If you’re looking to add more space to your home, then the question of how long it takes to build a house extension is likely to be one of your key concerns. From planning and design to obtaining the necessary building regulations, extending your home can be a long process – but with careful consideration of the various stages involved, you can ensure that it goes as smoothly as possible. 

The length of time it takes to plan and build a house extension will depend upon a range of factors such as the size and complexity of the project and the depth of pre-planning undertaken. As a general rule, a single-storey extension – such as an extra bedroom, kitchen or conservatory – can take from three to five months to plan and build, while a two-storey extension may take between six and nine months. 

Costs of a Home Extension

The costs associated with extending your home will vary depending on several factors, including the size and complexity of the work you are undertaking. Generally speaking, the cost of a single-storey extension – such as a new kitchen or bedroom – will typically be in the region of £25,000 to £50,000, while a larger, two-storey extension could reach up to £70,000 or more. Depending on your budget and the type of extension you choose, there may also be other associated costs such as fees for surveys, architects, planning permission and building inspections. 

Do I need planning permission for an extension?

Whether or not you need to obtain planning permission for your extension will depend on the size and type of extension you are planning. In England, most extensions and alterations don’t require planning permission – unless they’re located in a designated area such as a Conservation Area or Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. In Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales, however, the regulations differ and you should check with your local council before commencing any work. 

Can I speed up the planning application process?

The planning permission process can take some time, but there are a few ways you can speed things up. As soon as you have a clear idea of what kind of extension you would like to build, you can begin to collect the necessary documents, such as a Design and Access Statement and structural drawings. You should also speak to your local authority and discuss the different types of permits you may need for your project. Finally, you should make sure that all your paperwork is fully completed and accurate before applying. 

What building regulations do I need to consider?

In addition to obtaining the necessary planning permission, you will also need to comply with building regulations when constructing an extension. These regulations cover issues such as structural safety, energy efficiency, fire safety, and access. Building regulations approval is usually obtained before the project begins, so it’s important to factor this into your overall timeline when planning an extension. It’s also important to remember that these regulations apply even if planning permission is not required. 

Extending your home can be a complex and time-consuming process, but by taking the time to answer the question ‘How long does it take to build a house extension?’ you can ensure that your project is completed on time and within budget. Remember to take into account the various stages involved, such as obtaining planning permission, obtaining building regulations approval, and organising surveys and architects – and don’t forget to factor in contingencies for unexpected delays. With careful planning and consideration, you can ensure that your house extension is completed to the highest standard in the shortest amount of time possible.