ESSEX & SOUTHEAST
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House Extensions Essex
We offer the full range of house extensions across the whole of the Essex area, spanning from the county itself through to Kent, London and the general Southeast too. Whether you’re looking at kitchen extensions, side extensions, front or back extensions or any other kind anywhere in the Southeast, we have a specialist team of builders with vast experience in all kinds of home extensions just waiting to help you bring your dream house extension to life.
We’re here to help you with every step of your extension design and planning too. We work with many of the well known architects and designers and offer packages developed to many budget levels and typical type of specification . Contact our friendly experts today for a completely free no obligation quote to see what we can offer you.


TYPES OF HOME EXTENSION IN ESSEX
Looking to add more space to your Essex home? Don't want the hassle of moving? Looking for a brand new modern space? A home extension could be the perfect solution. Extending your property not only increases your living space but also boosts your home’s value. There are several types of extensions available for residential properties, each designed to serve different needs, maximise space, and improve the functionality of a home. Here are the most common types:

Rear Extension Essex
A rear house extension in Essex is a fantastic way to add space and value to your home. By extending into your garden, you can create larger living areas, open-plan kitchens, or additional dining space perhaps even for a home office too. This type of extension is ideal for improving your home's layout without losing any frontage, maintaining its curb appeal. Rear extensions can be designed to seamlessly blend with your property's existing architecture, and can often be completed without requiring full planning permission on many properties in Essex, usually we only need to notify building control and have them inspect the works at various stages. In most cases a rear extension will first of all require some structural work, on many properties in Essex that is a RSJ support beam running between the old kitchen and diner to open up the space and then another RSJ at the rear opening up the back of the house for Bi-fold doors. We normally also incorporate some kind of skylight or ceiling lantern into the new roof as well. This creates a huge, light and impressive space that a new modern, kitchen, diner and living space can be designed into.
Side Return-Extension Essex
A side-return house extension is a popular way to maximise space in homes with narrow or underused side alleys, particularly common in Victorian, Edwardian terraced properties or 1930s properties in Essex. However this is also a viable option for many other types of UK residential property. By extending into the side return—usually the small outdoor area running along the side of the house—you can create a wider, more open living area, kitchen, or dining space without losing much length of your garden.
This type of extension is often paired with bi-fold doors, skylights, or glass roofs to bring in natural light, creating a bright, modern space. Side-return extensions can also improve the flow of your home, allowing for open-plan layouts that feel more spacious and functional. In many cases, side-return extensions fall under permitted development, meaning you may not need planning permission. By investing in a side-return extension, you can transform your Essex home's layout, make way for a new kitchen and living space or add a separate room such as a utility room or office. Often major structural support work is not required on a side extension because it remains a separate room which means there's door from the old property into the new extension and often a window lintel can be used for this.
Wrap-around Extensions Essex
A wrap-around house extension combines both a rear and side extension, creating an L-shaped expansion that maximises the most space and can dramatically transform the ground floor of your home. This type of extension is ideal for properties with unused side returns and ample garden space, allowing homeowners to significantly increase the size of their kitchen, living, or dining areas, as well as add separate rooms too such as a bathroom, office or utility room. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to create an open-plan layout that brings in more light and enhances the flow between rooms.
A wrap-around extension can be customized with features like skylights, bi-fold doors, or large windows to flood the space with natural light, creating a bright and airy environment. While this extension offers substantial benefits, it often requires planning permission in Essex due to the larger scale of the build, so consulting with a professional is essential and we can work with you on the whole process.
Whilst these are typically the most costly kinds of ground floor extensions, by investing in a wrap-around extension, you not only improving the functionality and aesthetics of your home tenfold but will also add significant value to your property and create the most impressive kind of modernisations usually with multiple rooms/spaces.
A double storey house extension in Essex is an excellent way to significantly increase both living and bedroom space without adding more bedroom space to the ground floor in turn reducing garden size. This type of extension adds rooms to both the ground and upper floors, making it ideal for growing families or homeowners looking to add value to their property. Popular for creating additional bedrooms, bathrooms, or expanding the kitchen and living areas, a double storey extension can greatly enhance your home’s functionality.
Although it requires careful planning, this extension is often more cost-effective per square meter than a single storey extension so it may be well worth it depending on the specific property and circumstances. You may need planning permission for a double storey extension, especially if it impacts neighbouring properties, but it can offer a substantial return on investment by increasing both space and property value.
Double-Storey Extension Essex

Over-Structure Extension Essex
An over-structure house extension is a space-efficient way to expand your Essex home by building on top of an existing structure, such as a garage, porch, or single-storey extension. This type of extension is perfect for adding extra bedrooms, home offices, or bathrooms without using up garden space. Over-structure extensions can seamlessly integrate with your home’s existing architecture, maintaining its overall aesthetic and curb appeal.
Since the foundation is already in place, this extension is often more affordable and quicker to build than starting from scratch. However, it requires careful structural assessment to ensure the existing base can support the additional weight. Planning permission is typically required, and working with a skilled builder and possibly an architect/ structural engineer is essential to ensure safety and compliance with building regulations.
Orangeries Essex
An orangery is a stylish extension that blends the benefits of a conservatory and a traditional brick extension. Featuring a solid brick base, large windows, and a glass roof or lantern, orangeries offer a bright, airy space while providing more insulation and durability than a standard conservatory. They can be used for various purposes, such as a dining room, living area, or even a home office.
Unlike conservatories, orangeries typically feature more brickwork, making them feel like a natural extension of your home. They offer year-round usability due to their better temperature regulation. In many cases, orangeries fall under permitted development rights, though we will always check Essex building regulations regarding the specific project. Adding an orangery can increase your property’s value while creating a versatile, elegant living space.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT HOME EXTENSIONS IN ESSEX
Considering a home extension in Essex? Planning is absolutely key and whilst we do a lot of the planning/organising for you, there is still a lot to consider and prepare for. Our comprehensive FAQ section answers the most common questions, but please reach because starting a dialogue is an essential.

How long does a house extension take to complete?
The time it takes to complete a house extension depends on the type, size, and complexity of the project, as well as factors like weather, planning permissions, and availability of materials. Here’s a general timeline for the different types of house extension that we typically build in Essex.
1. Single-Storey Extension
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Timeline: 3 to 4 months.
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A single-storey extension, such as a rear kitchen or living room extension, typically takes around 12 to 16 weeks to complete. This includes groundwork, construction, and interior finishes.
2. Double-Storey Extension
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Timeline: 4 to 6 months.
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Double-storey extensions take longer because they involve more complex structural work, including the construction of multiple floors. The project duration is typically 16 to 24 weeks, depending on the scale of the extension and any potential disruptions.
3. Side-Return Extension
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Timeline: 3 to 4 months.
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Side-return extensions typically take the same amount of time as single-storey extensions (12 to 16 weeks) but could take longer if the design is more complex or includes additional features like bi-fold doors or skylights.
4. Wrap-Around Extension
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Timeline: 4 to 6 months.
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Wrap-around extensions are larger projects, combining both rear and side extensions, and often involve more extensive structural work. These projects can take up to 6 months or longer, depending on the complexity of the design.
. Garage Conversion
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Timeline: 4 to 8 weeks.
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Since the structure is already in place, converting a garage into a habitable room is typically faster than building a new extension. Most garage conversions can be completed in 1 to 2 months.
6. Orangery or Conservatory
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Timeline: 8 to 12 weeks.
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Building a conservatory or orangery generally takes around 2 to 3 months, though this depends on the level of customisation, such as the inclusion of underfloor heating or brickwork.
Other Factors Affecting Timelines
The timeline is dependent on other factors out of the contractors control as per the below however we will work with you to minimise delay wherever possible.
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If your extension requires planning permission, this can add an additional 8 to 12 weeks for approval, depending on the local authority.
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Poor weather conditions can delay groundwork and external construction phases, especially during the winter months.
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Delays in material supply or specialist items can slow down the project.
House Extension Cost Essex
Each project is individually priced according to our site survey and plans. Kitchen extensions usually cost between £45,000 and £90,000, depending on footprint size and additional extras. Shell structures start from £1,200 per square meter.
However the cost of a house extension in Essex can vary depending massively depending on the below factors. Here's a general breakdown of extension costs in Essex:
1. Single-Storey Extension
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Cost: £1,500 to £2,500 per square meter.
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A typical single-storey extension, such as a kitchen or living room extension, will cost around £30,000 to £50,000 for the shell, depending on the quality of materials and finishes.
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Larger extensions with higher-end finishes or bespoke design features could cost more.
2. Double-Storey Extension
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Cost: £1,400 to £2,200 per square meter.
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A double-storey extension is usually more cost-effective per square meter because the foundation and roof costs are shared between two floors but there is more complex structural work involved and additional planning/architectural costs too. You can expect to pay £50,000 to £100,000, depending on the size and design.
3. Side-Return Extension
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Cost: £50,000 to £80,000.
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Extending into the side alley (common in terraced houses) is a popular option. The cost varies based on the materials used, whether you’re adding skylights, and the finishes.
4. Wrap-Around Extension
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Cost: £60,000 to £100,000 or more.
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This combines both a rear and side extension, providing a large open-plan space. Due to its size and scope, the cost is higher, particularly if high-end finishes are involved.
5. Garage Conversion
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Cost: £10,000 to £20,000.
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Converting a garage into a habitable space is usually more affordable than building a new extension, as the structure is already in place.
6. Orangery or Conservatory
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Cost: £20,000 to £50,000.
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Adding an orangery or conservatory to your home is another option, with orangeries generally being more expensive due to their brickwork and insulation.
7. Additional Costs
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Planning and Design: Architect’s fees, planning permissions, and structural engineer costs can range from £1,500 to £5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the project. If you haven't already consulted an architect or structural engineer we can recommend some of our trusted partners and work with them on the build.
Contact Us today for an accurate quote!
Planning Permission House Extensions Essex
Whether you need planning permission for a home extension in Essex depends on the size and type of extension more than anything else. Some extensions can be built under permitted development rights, while others require full planning approval. Here’s the key differences between the two:
1. Permitted Development Rights
For smaller extensions, you may not need full planning permission if they fall under permitted development. General rules for permitted development include:
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Single-storey rear extensions can be up to 8 meters deep for detached houses and 6 meters for semi-detached or terraced homes.
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The extension must not take up more than 50% of the land around the original house.
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The height of the extension cannot exceed 4 meters.
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Materials should match the existing property.
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No balconies, verandas, or raised platforms can be included.
However, these rules apply to most properties, and permitted development rights might not apply in:
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Conservation areas or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
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Listed buildings or properties in protected zones.
2. Planning Permission Required
You will likely need planning permission in the following cases:
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Double-storey extensions.
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Extensions that are higher than 4 meters.
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Wrap-around extensions combining side and rear extensions.
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Extending forward or towards the road (front extensions).
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If the property is in a restricted area like a conservation zone.
3. Local Considerations
Each local authority in Essex may have specific rules or additional considerations. It’s always a good idea to check with your local planning authority during your planning phase but we also do this too. They can confirm whether your project falls under permitted development or requires formal planning permission.
4. Certificate of Lawfulness
Even if your extension falls under permitted development, you can apply for a Certificate of Lawfulness from your local authority. This provides formal proof that your extension doesn’t need planning permission, which can be useful when selling the property.
Usually, you do not have to move out. The work area is separated from the habitable area to minimize disruption. However, for a full house refurbishment, you may need to move out for a period of time.
Can you live in house during
extension building work?

Can you cater to very niche, customised
requests that require specialist work?
Yes our team are highly experienced as we're happy to create solutions for individual requests. We are also very well known in the construction industry and have good relationships with various specialist construction firms and tradesmen.
How much value does an extension add?
A house extension can add significant value to a property in the UK, typically increasing its market value by 10% to 20%, depending on the type of extension and the property’s location. However, the exact value added depends on several factors. Usually the more valuable the original property by areas and square foot the more financially worthwhile it will be to invest in.
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Type of Extension:
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Kitchen or Rear Extension: These are among the most popular and can add up to 15% to a home’s value, especially if they create an open-plan living space.
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Loft Conversion: Adding an extra bedroom with a loft conversion can increase value by 15-20%.
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Double-Storey Extension: Larger extensions, such as adding multiple rooms, may increase value by 20% or more.
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Location:
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In high-demand areas like London, extensions may provide a higher return due to elevated property prices. The increase in value can be particularly high if the extension provides extra bedrooms or improves the home’s layout.
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Quality of Work: A well-executed, high-quality extension will add more value compared to a poorly finished one. Ensure the extension blends with the style of the existing property and is built with high-quality materials.
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Purpose of the Extension:
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Adding bedrooms or improving the kitchen and bathroom are particularly attractive to potential buyers, as these rooms typically increase a home's functionality.
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Ultimately, a house extension can significantly enhance both the livability and resale value of a property, but it’s important to plan carefully and consult with experts to maximize return on investment.
Can I extend a listed building in Essex?
Yes, you can extend a listed building in Essex, but it comes with strict regulations and additional challenges. Listed buildings are legally protected due to their historical or architectural significance, and any changes, including extensions, must preserve the building’s character. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Listed Building Consent
You must obtain Listed Building Consent before making any alterations, including extensions. This is required in addition to regular planning permission and is overseen by your local planning authority in Essex. The application will be assessed based on the impact on the building's historical and architectural significance.
2. Sympathetic Design
The extension must be designed in a way that complements and respects the existing architecture. Using appropriate materials and designs that blend with the original structure is essential. Modern, contrasting extensions may be allowed, but they must be thoughtfully designed.
3. Heritage Consultant
Working with a heritage or conservation consultant can help ensure the extension meets all legal and architectural requirements. These experts can guide you through the approval process and ensure compliance with conservation laws. We work with the well renowned heritage consultants in Essex so we can always use these services where necessary.
4. Planning Permission
In addition to Listed Building Consent, you may also need planning permission, particularly for larger extensions. Essex's local planning authorities have strict guidelines to preserve the character of historic properties but that is just another thing that needs to be navigated.
5. Limitations on Modern Features
Certain modern features, like large glass windows or bi-fold doors, may not be approved if they clash with the historical integrity of the building. It’s crucial to balance modern needs with conservation requirements.
6. Interior Restrictions
Keep in mind that listed status applies not only to the exterior but also to the interior, including walls, floors, and certain features like fireplaces. Any work done inside the building must also be approved.

We're a local home extension builder in Essex and surrounding areas. We transform original spaces into design orientated, larger functional living areas tailored to the customers vision and requirements. We offer the full range of general building services for home extensions in Essex so can carry out all the of work within our team to maximise time and value for money.

Home Extensions Essex
Saffron Walden
Coggeshall
Harwhich
South Woodham Ferrers
Loughton
Frinton-On-Sea
Tilbury
Brightlingsea
Maldon
Gravesend
Rayleigh
Burnham-On-Crouch
Rochford
Epping
Westcliff-On-Sea
Witham
Waltham Abbey
Frinton-on-Sea
ESSEX & SOUTHEAST
HOMEEXTENSIONS
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