Home Extension Cost: Exploring Single-Storey Extensions
Adding a single-storey extension to your home is an excellent way to create additional space and increase the value of your property. Estimates from Checkatrade suggest that a standard single-storey extension can add 5-8% to the value of your house, but this must be balanced against the overall home extension cost.
So, before embarking on this exciting project, it’s crucial to understand the various factors that contribute to overall home extension costs. From the size and layout to planning permissions and the choice of materials, each element plays a role in shaping the final budget.
In this post, Fleet Homes Construction will explore these key considerations, providing you with the insights needed to effectively plan and budget for your single-storey extension in Surrey, Hampshire, or London.
Key Factors Influencing Home Extension Cost
When planning a single-storey extension, the total cost can vary significantly depending on a range of factors. Typically, you can expect to pay between £1,500 to £3,000 per square metre, but several variables can push this figure higher. Here are the primary factors that influence the home extension cost:
1. Size and Layout
The size of your extension is one of the most obvious cost drivers. Larger extensions naturally require more materials, more labour, and more time to complete. However, it’s not just the square footage that matters; the complexity of the layout also plays a crucial role.
Simple, rectangular shapes are generally the most cost-effective, while extensions with multiple corners, curves, or bespoke features can significantly increase the overall cost. The layout should be carefully considered, especially if it involves altering existing walls or adding custom elements.
For more detailed information on how design choices like the size and shape of your extension can affect costs, you can explore resources like MyJobQuote.
2. Materials and Finishes
Materials are another key factor that can greatly influence your home extension cost. Standard materials such as brick and block are typically more affordable, while premium materials like glass, steel, or high-end timber can drive costs up.
Additionally, the quality of finishes - such as flooring, windows, and doors - can massively affect the price. Opting for luxury fittings or custom-made items will add to the overall project expense, but can significantly enhance the aesthetic and functional value of your extension. Choosing the right materials is about balancing your desired look and feel with your budget.
3. Location
The cost of building an extension can also vary depending on your location. In general, construction costs are higher in urban areas, particularly in London and the South East of England. Labour rates, material costs, and even planning fees tend to be more expensive in these regions compared to the rest of the UK. It’s essential to factor in these regional differences when setting your budget.
For those building home extensions in London or other high-cost areas, Architecture for London provides a useful breakdown of how location influences building costs, helping you to set realistic expectations for your project.
Planning Permission and Building Regulations
Before starting any extension work, understanding the planning permission and building regulations requirements is vital. These legal aspects can have a significant impact on your home extension cost, and failing to comply can lead to fines or enforced alterations.
Understanding Permissions
For many single-storey extensions, permitted development rights may allow you to build without full planning permission, provided your design meets certain criteria such as height restrictions, distance from boundaries, and usage limits. However, these rights are not universal, and factors such as the size of your extension or whether your home is in a conservation area can affect whether you need to seek permission.
Planning permission can involve application fees, potential design changes, and consultations with local authorities - all of which can add to your overall costs. To ensure your extension complies with local regulations and to avoid unexpected expenses, it’s advisable to consult with professionals early in the planning stage.
For detailed advice on planning permissions specific to single-storey extensions, Resi’s guide offers valuable information on what to consider before proceeding.
Building Regulations Compliance
Even if your extension falls under permitted development, it must still comply with building regulations. These regulations are designed to ensure that the structure is safe, energy-efficient, and built to a high standard.
Compliance involves inspections at various stages of the build and covers aspects such as structural integrity, fire safety, insulation, and ventilation. Obtaining the necessary approvals can add to your home extension cost, but this is an essential step to ensure the long-term safety and comfort of your new space.
Building regulations approval typically involves fees for the initial application and for each inspection, so it’s important to factor these costs into your budget. This may sound confusing, but an experienced local property development company like Fleet Homes Construction can help guide you through this process.
Additional Home Extension Costs to Consider
Beyond the primary construction costs, there are several additional expenses that homeowners should account for when budgeting for a single-storey extension. Understanding these costs upfront can help prevent surprises and ensure your project stays on track financially.
Professional Fees
Hiring professionals such as architects, surveyors, and structural engineers is often necessary to ensure your extension meets all legal and safety requirements. While these services add to the overall cost, they provide valuable expertise that can save you money in the long run by preventing costly mistakes or ensuring efficient use of space and materials.
Professional fees can range from 10-15% of the total project cost, so it’s wise to include these in your initial budget. Their input can also be crucial during the planning and design phases, helping to navigate the complexities of planning permissions and building regulations.
Utilities and Landscaping
Extending your home may require adjustments to existing utilities, such as relocating plumbing, updating electrical wiring, or extending heating systems. These changes can add a significant amount to the home extension cost, especially if major work is required to connect new services.
Additionally, consider the impact of the extension on your outdoor space. Landscaping, pathways, or modifications to driveways and fences might be needed to integrate the new extension with your garden or yard. These external works are often overlooked in initial budgeting but can be a significant expense.
Contingency Budget
Finally, it’s important to set aside a contingency budget of around 10-20% of the total home extension cost to cover unexpected expenses. Whether it’s discovering issues with the existing structure, dealing with unforeseen ground conditions, or making last-minute design changes, a contingency fund can provide peace of mind and financial flexibility throughout the project.
Contact Fleet Homes Construction for Single-Storey Extensions in Surrey, Hampshire, and London
Planning and budgeting for a single-storey extension involves careful consideration of multiple factors, each contributing to the overall home extension cost. By understanding these elements - from size and materials to planning permissions and professional fees - you can set a realistic budget and avoid unexpected surprises.
If you’re ready to explore your home extension options, or need expert advice tailored to your specific needs, Fleet Homes Construction is here to help. With extensive experience in bespoke renovations and extensions in Surrey, Hampshire, and London, we offer personalised guidance and transparent budgeting to ensure your project is completed to the highest standard.
Contact our team today to learn more or schedule a consultation. Let us help turn your home extension vision into reality with expertise and attention to detail that sets us apart.