Single Storey Extension
Experts in single storey extension - Costs, Planning & Benefits
A single storey extension is one of the most cost-effective methods for extending your home. Consisting of one storey, these extensions are often used to expand existing living spaces in a home, such as a kitchen or dining area, and are commonly utilised to create an open-plan home layout, making a home feel larger and more free-flowing. As one of the simplest home extension methods, single storey extensions also benefit from faster build times, less complex planning permission, and potentially lower costs compared to other extension methods.
Different Types of Single storey Extensions
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Side Single Storey Extensions
Situated at the side of a property, this type of single storey extension is ideal for more narrow plots that have free, unused space at the sides for construction. These extensions are perfect for adding extra practical rooms to a home’s floor plan, such as a utility room or storage space. The best-designed side extensions blend in with the existing property, matching exteriors with similar materials.
Rear Single Storey Extensions
As one of the most common types of single-storey extensions, these structures utilise a property’s space at the rear, typically using up a section of the back garden to extend the home. Due to their position at the back of a property, rear extensions are commonly used to expand important rooms of a home, like the kitchen and dining areas. With the extra space – as well as the option of integrating the indoors with the back garden – rear extensions are great for creating a modern, open-plan living space.
Single Storey Extension Cost
A single storey home extension is an excellent way of creating more space for your home, improving functionality and making home life more enjoyable. To create an addition to your home that works for you, it’s crucial to understand the costs involved.
The cost of a single storey extension can vary significantly depending on the size, materials, and complexity of the project. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between £40,000 and £140,000. The final price will depend on several factors, including the type of single storey extension, interior finishes, and any additional work required.
Factors That Affect the Cost
- Size and Scope: Larger, more complex extensions will require more materials and labour to complete, which increases the total cost. Contractors will typically charge these projects per square metre, so a bigger extension will cost more.
- Materials Used: The choice of materials used will significantly impact the cost. For example, a traditional brick-and-mortar extension will likely cost more than a timber frame extension, and the use of premium materials, like glass walls, will add to the overall expense.
- Interior Finishing: As well as the structure itself adds to the cost, as will the interior finishings, such as your choice of flooring, lighting and heating.
- Additional Costs: Homeowners will also need to factor in several additional costs, including planning permission and building regulations, architecture and design fees, landscaping, and exterior work.
Is a Single Storey Extension Cost-Effective?
Despite the upfront investment, a well-designed extension can add 5-8% to your home’s value, making it a financially sound decision in the long run. Not only does it enhance your living space, but it also makes your property more desirable should you decide to sell in the future. By working with an experienced construction team, you can ensure that your single storey extension is built to the highest standards while remaining within budget.
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HOW LONG DOES A SINGLE-STOREY EXTENSION TAKE TO BUILD?
The timeline for a single storey extension can vary depending on the size and complexity. Generally, a small extension can take 6-10 weeks, while larger or more complex extensions may require 10-16 weeks. How long your specific extension project will take depends on several factors, including weather conditions, material availability, and changes in project scope. Additionally, if planning permission is required, the approval process can add extra time to the project.
How Close Can I Build to My Boundary?
For single-storey extensions, you can usually build up to the boundary as long as you comply with permitted development rights. However, if your extension is within 2 metres of the boundary, the eaves height must not exceed 3 metres. For two-storey extensions, planning permission is required, and additional restrictions apply to protect neighbours’ privacy.
If you’re planning to build close to a neighbour’s boundary, the Party Wall Act 1996 may come into play. This requires you to notify your neighbour and, in some cases, obtain a party wall agreement before construction begins.
Permission for a Single Storey Extension
Planning permission and building regulations are vital aspects to consider when extending your home with a single storey extension. While you may be able to build without planning permission, understanding the relevant rules and guidelines ensures a smooth process.
Do You Need Planning Permission?
Due to their typical size and complexity, many single storey extensions fall under permitted development rights, meaning you don’t need to apply for planning permission, but you must meet the specific criteria. These include:
- The extension must not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than:
- 6 metres for a detached house.
- 3 metres for all other types of houses.
- The maximum height of the extension must not exceed 4 metres.
- Side extensions must be single storey, no wider than half the width of the original house.
- The extension must not cover more than 50% of the total land around the original house.
When is Planning Permission Required?
You will need to apply for planning permission if:
- Your property is in a conservation area, national park, or is a listed building.
- The extension exceeds the permitted development size limits.
- The materials or design significantly alter the appearance of the home.
- The extension impacts your neighbours’ privacy or access to natural light.
Building Regulations: Ensuring Safety and Compliance
Regardless of whether your single storey extension falls under permitted development rights or full planning permission is required, building regulations approval will be required, as these are crucial for ensuring the structural integrity, insulation, and safety of your extension.
- Structural Stability: Ensuring the foundation and construction meet safety standards.
- Energy Efficiency: Proper insulation, glazing, and ventilation for comfort and sustainability.
- Fire Safety: Compliance with fire escape routes, alarms, and materials used.
- Drainage & Plumbing: Proper connection to existing drainage systems.
When you work with Bespoke Construction Group to build your single storey extension, you don’t need to worry as our team handles all planning permissions and building regulations, ensuring compliance and safety. We’ll be by your side to guide you through every step.
Faq
DO I NEED A PARTY WALL AGREEMENT FOR A SINGLE STOREY EXTENSION?
If your single-storey extension is being built up to or on a shared boundary with a neighbouring property, you may need a Party Wall Agreement under the Party Wall Act 1996.
HOW MUCH DOES A SINGLE STOREY EXTENSION ADD TO THE VALUE OF A HOUSE?
A well-designed single-storey extension can add 5-8% to your home’s value, depending on its size, quality, and functionality. Kitchen extensions and open-plan living areas tend to have the biggest impact, as they create sought-after, modern spaces that appeal to buyers.
CAN MY NEIGHBOUR STOP ME FROM BUILDING A SIDE EXTENSION?
Your neighbour can’t stop you from building a side extension if it falls within permitted development rights or has planning approval. However, they can raise objections during the planning process if they believe the extension would negatively impact their property, such as by blocking light or access.
HOW FAR CAN YOU EXTEND A SINGLE STOREY WITHOUT PLANNING?
Under permitted development rights, you can extend up to 6m from the original rear wall for a detached house and 3m for a semi-detached or terraced house without planning permission.
HOW DEEP SHOULD FOUNDATIONS BE FOR A SINGLE STOREY EXTENSION?
The depth of foundations for a single-storey extension typically needs to be at least 1 metre, but this can vary depending on soil type, nearby trees, and the weight of the structure. In some cases, deeper foundations may be required to ensure stability.
HOW BIG CAN A SINGLE STOREY EXTENSION BE WITHOUT PLANNING PERMISSION?
For a rear extension, the maximum size under permitted development is 6m for a detached house and 3m for other types of houses, with a maximum height of 4m. Side extensions must be no wider than half the width of the original house.
WHAT IS THE 50% RULE FOR HOUSE EXTENSIONS?
The 50% rule means that any extensions (including previous additions) must not cover more than 50% of the total land around the original house.
