Guides · Extension & Conservatory

House Extension & Conservatory Guides for 2026

Single-storey, double-storey, rear, side-return, wraparound, conservatories and orangeries — every 2026 UK extension cost, planning rule and design decision covered.

158 guides Real 2026 UK prices Free to read

A UK house extension in 2026 typically costs £1,650–£4,200 per square metre depending on specification and region, with kitchens, glazing and bathrooms adding to the build cost. Single-storey rear extensions remain the most popular project; double-storey versions deliver the lowest cost per square metre.

Planning permission, permitted development limits, party-wall agreements and building regulations all shape what you can build. These guides walk through each decision with real 2026 prices from vetted UK builders.

All 158 Extension & Conservatory Guides

All guide topics →
Compare

Roof Lantern Extension: Cost & Options 2026 (UK)

A single-storey roof lantern extension costs £2,000–£2,800 per m² in 2026, so a typical 20m² build runs about £42,000–£58,000 including one lantern. A roof lantern floods a deep-plan room with daylight and is the…

Read guide →
Compare

Conservatory Roof Replacement & Options UK

Compare conservatory roof options in the UK. Learn styles, materials, planning rules, and how to get quotes from vetted local installers.

Read guide →
Compare

Conservatory Roof Replacement (UK Guide)

Replace your conservatory roof with trusted UK installers. Compare options, understand the process, and request quotes to improve comfort, noise and energy use.

Read guide →
Compare

Pitched vs Flat Roof Extension: Costs & Choice 2026

Choosing between a pitched and a flat roof shapes the cost, look and headroom of your extension. Here is how the two compare on price, lifespan, planning and light, and how to choose the right roof for your UK extension…

Read guide →
Compare

Porch Roof Ideas: Types, Costs & How to Choose 2026

A porch roof sets the look of your entrance and protects it from the weather. Here are the main types — flat, pitched and tiled — how they compare on cost and style, the planning rules, and how to choose the right porch…

Read guide →
Compare

Tiled Conservatory Roof: Pros, Cost & Options 2026 (UK)

A tiled conservatory roof turns a too-hot, too-cold glazed room into a warm, quiet space you can use all year. Here are the pros and cons, typical 2026 UK costs, how lightweight warm-roof systems work, and how a solid…

Read guide →
Compare

Conservatory Roof Conversion: Options & Costs 2026 (UK)

A conservatory roof conversion swaps a tired polycarbonate or glass roof for a warm solid or high-performance glazed one. Here is how tiled, glass and polycarbonate roofs compare on cost, warmth and light, and how to…

Read guide →
Compare

Compare Granny Annexe Builders: How to Choose One 2026 (UK)

Choosing a granny annexe builder in 2026 comes down to comparing like-for-like quotes, checking insurance and warranties, and deciding between modular and traditional build. Here is how to vet builders and pick the…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for an Annexe 2026? (UK)

A self-contained annexe used as a separate dwelling almost always needs full planning permission in 2026 UK, while an ancillary annexe used as part of the main home may fall under Permitted Development. Here is what…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Does an Orangery Extension Cost in 2026? (UK)

An orangery extension typically costs £30,000–£75,000+ in 2026 UK, driven by floor area, the lantern roof, glazing spec and groundworks. Here is the full price breakdown, what pushes costs up or down, and how to compare…

Read guide →
Compare

Conservatory Roof Insulation Cost & Options 2026 (UK)

Conservatory roof insulation costs £1,500–£6,000 in 2026, from an internal insulated ceiling to a full solid roof conversion. We compare the options, their prices and how much each really cuts the summer heat and winter…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Conservatory Roof Replacement Cost in 2026 (UK)

Conservatory roof replacement costs £3,500–£10,000 in 2026 for a warm solid or tiled roof, and less for a polycarbonate or glass swap. We break down the prices by roof type and conservatory size, explain what drives a…

Read guide →
Compare

Flat Roof Extension: Cost & Options 2026 (UK)

A single-storey flat roof extension costs £1,800–£2,600 per m² in 2026, so a 20m² build runs roughly £36k–£52k. We break down what drives the price, the roof covering and rooflight options, warm-versus-cold roof…

Read guide →
Compare

Extension Costs: Timber Frame vs Brick in 2026 (UK)

On a 30m² single-storey rear extension, timber frame averages £54k–£72k while brick comes in at £60k–£84k — a 10–20% headline cost gap. But brick wins on long-term resale, timber wins on build speed and thermal…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Granny Annexe Worth It in 2026? (UK)

A self-contained granny annexe costs £45,000–£120,000 in 2026 depending on whether you convert, extend or build a garden annexe — a big number, but one that can add 20–30% to the property, keep family close, and offset…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Does an Orangery Cost in 2026? (UK)

A typical 4x4m orangery costs £20,000–£45,000 fitted in 2026 — more than a conservatory, less than a full brick extension, and prized for the brick piers and flat-roof lantern that give it a solid, room-like feel. We…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Does a Flat Roof Extension Cost in 2026? (UK)

A single-storey flat roof extension typically costs £2,000–£2,600 per m² in 2026, so a common 20m² rear extension lands around £40,000–£65,000 once you include foundations, structure, a warm flat roof, glazing and…

Read guide →
Compare

Which Extension Type Costs Less? Compare 2026 UK

Comparing extension types in 2026: a single-storey rear extension is the cheapest per m2 at £2,000-£3,000/m2, conservatories and garden rooms cost least overall, and wraparound or double-storey extensions cost the most…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Wrap-Around Extension 2026?

Wrap-around (L-shaped) extensions in the UK almost always need full planning permission in 2026 — a single-storey rear and single-storey side combined exceeds permitted development limits even on detached homes. Listed…

Read guide →
Compare

Extension Quotes UK 2026: Builder vs Design & Build Compared

For a 2026 UK extension, the standalone builder route is typically 10-18% cheaper but you carry the design and coordination risk. Design & Build is fixed-price under one contract, faster and safer, but you pay a 10-15%…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Side Return Extension UK 2026?

Most single-storey side return extensions on UK terraces and semis in 2026 fall under permitted development if depth and width limits are met and the property is not on designated land or under Article 4. Conservation…

Read guide →
How-To

How Long Does a House Extension Take in 2026? UK Timeline

A single-storey rear extension in 2026 UK takes 10–14 weeks on site after a 4–6 month design and planning phase. Double-storey adds 4–8 weeks. Full timeline broken down by phase, plus the 6 delay risks most likely to…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Kitchen Extension UK 2026?

Most single-storey kitchen extensions in the UK in 2026 fall under permitted development if depth is under 6m (semi) or 8m (detached) and the build is under 4m high. Through-extensions over 6m need the Larger Home…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Side Extension UK 2026?

Most single-storey side extensions in 2026 UK fall under permitted development if under 50% of the original house width and 4m to the ridge. Two-storey side extensions almost always need full planning. Full PD rules…

Read guide →
Compare

Bathroom Fitter vs Extension Builder 2026

Bathroom fitter vs extension builder in 2026: a bathroom fitter refurbishes within your existing walls, while an extension builder adds new structural space. Compare scope, cost, timelines and exactly when to hire each…

Read guide →
Planning

Planning Permission for a Wraparound Extension 2026

Do you need planning permission for a wraparound extension in 2026? In most cases yes. Because a wraparound combines a rear and a side extension it almost always exceeds permitted development limits, so full householder…

Read guide →
Compare

3 Meter House Extension Cost UK 2026: The 3m Rule

3 metres is the permitted development sweet spot for semis and terraces. A 3m x 5m extension costs about 30,000-40,000 pounds in 2026 - see the rules, the 6m prior approval route and design tips.

Read guide →
Compare

Front Porch Extension Cost UK 2026: Prices and Rules

A front porch extension costs 3,500-8,000 pounds in 2026 for a typical brick build of 2-4 square metres. Prices by size and spec, plus the 3 square metre permitted development rule explained.

Read guide →
Compare

Lean To Extension Cost UK 2026: Prices and Full Guide

A lean to extension is the cheapest way to add real living space: 1,700-2,200 pounds per square metre in 2026. Costs by size, permitted development rules and design tips for the single-slope build.

Read guide →
Compare

Glass Extension Cost UK 2026: Frameless Glazing Guide

Glass extensions cost 3,000-4,500 pounds per square metre in 2026. Frameless boxes, glazed links, Part L and overheating rules, and how structural glazing compares with a conservatory.

Read guide →
Compare

Converting a Conservatory to an Extension: 2026 Costs

Converting a conservatory into a proper extension costs 15,000-40,000 pounds in 2026. See what the work involves, why building regs now apply, and when a knock-down rebuild is better value.

Read guide →
Compare

Conservatory Extension Cost UK 2026: Full Price Guide

Conservatory extensions blend glazing with a proper insulated build. 2026 costs run 1,200-2,500 pounds per square metre - prices, planning rules and how they compare with a traditional conservatory.

Read guide →
Compare

Wrap Around Extension Cost UK 2026: Price Guide

Wrap around extensions cost £2,000–£2,800 per m² in 2026, with totals of £60,000–£120,000. Planning rules, cost drivers and how the L-shaped build works.

Read guide →
Compare

First Floor Extension Cost UK 2026: Full Guide

First floor extensions cost £1,500–£2,200 per m² in 2026 if the structure below is sound. Why the structural survey comes first, planning rules and full costs.

Read guide →
Compare

Timber Frame Extension Cost UK 2026: Price Guide

Timber frame extensions cost £1,700–£2,400 per m² in 2026 and run 20–30% faster than blockwork. Costs, planning rules and how the factory-made route works.

Read guide →
Compare

Garage Extension Cost UK 2026: Above or Beside Guide

Garage extension costs for 2026: what a room above the garage costs per square metre, the structural survey that decides everything, underpinning risk and the planning rules.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Extension Cost Per M2 UK 2026: Element Price Breakdown

Extension cost per m2 for 2026: basic, standard and premium rates, an element-by-element breakdown from foundations to finishes, and what shifts your rate up or down.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Side Extension Cost UK 2026: Side Return Price Guide

Side extension and side return costs for 2026: London all-in prices, per square metre rates elsewhere, the half-width planning rule and why small footprints carry big fixed costs.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Rear Extension Cost UK 2026: Prices by Size and Spec

Rear extension costs for 2026: what 3m, 4m and 6m projects cost, the permitted development depth rules, two-storey savings and how to compare builder quotes properly.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Single Storey Extension Cost UK 2026: Full Price Guide

Single storey extension costs for 2026: prices per square metre by spec, typical totals from 12m2 to 30m2, planning rules, fees and the extras that catch homeowners out.

Read guide →
Compare

Extension Builders Near Me 2026: How to Choose (UK Guide)

There is no real national ranking of extension builders. What protects you is a set of checks: FMB and TrustMark registration, a structural warranty, clear written quotes and proven party wall experience. This guide…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

EPDM Flat Roof Cost 2026: £80–£140 per m²

An EPDM rubber flat roof in 2026 costs £80–£140 per m² supplied and fitted — around £1,500–£2,800 for a garage, £2,500–£5,000 for an extension and £1,200–£2,200 for a dormer. EPDM lasts 25–50 years with a seam-free…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Average Cost of a Side Return Extension 2026: £40k–£75k UK

A side return extension in 2026 costs £40,000–£75,000, or roughly £2,800–£4,200 per m². A typical Victorian or Edwardian terrace kitchen side return lands at £50,000–£65,000 including a new kitchen. Glazing, ground and…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Home Extension Cheaper with ICF Blocks in 2026? (UK)

Is a home extension cheaper with ICF (insulated concrete formwork) blocks in 2026 UK? On upfront build cost, usually no — ICF runs 5–12% more than brick-and-block. But faster builds, lower labour and far lower running…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Side Extension Cost UK 2026: £25k–£90k Width Pricing

A UK side extension in 2026 typically costs £25,000–£70,000 single storey, £55,000–£140,000 double storey. Use this guide's width ladder, regional pricing and Bristol worked example to budget with confidence.

Read guide →
Compare

Fixed Price vs Cost Plus Builder Contracts 2026 (UK)

Compare extension builder pricing models in 2026. Fixed price gives certainty but premium pricing; cost plus is transparent and cheaper if you stay disciplined. Here's which fits your project type and risk appetite.

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Home Extension Cheaper With a Flat Roof? 2026 UK

Short answer: usually yes. On a single-storey extension a flat roof typically costs £1,500–£4,000 less than a pitched roof — fewer materials, simpler structure, faster build. A quality warm-deck flat roof (EPDM/GRP)…

Read guide →
Planning

Two-Storey Wraparound Planning Permission UK 2026

Do you need planning permission for a two-storey wraparound extension in 2026 UK? In almost every case, yes. Because a wraparound combines a side and rear extension and goes to two storeys, it falls outside permitted…

Read guide →
Compare

Conservatory vs Orangery vs Extension: UK 2026 Guide

Full comparison of conservatories, orangeries and single-storey extensions in 2026. Costs, planning, value uplift and which is right for your home.

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Solid Roof Conservatory Worth It? UK 2026

Is a solid roof conservatory conversion worth it in 2026? Costs from £6,000, benefits, planning rules and the leading roof systems compared.

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for 2-Storey Extension? UK

In 2026 UK , most two-storey extensions do not need full planning permission — they fall under permitted development if you stay within the limits: max 3m rear projection, no closer than 7m to the rear boundary…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Conservatory Extension Worth It in 2026? UK

2026 UK honest verdict on conservatory extensions: a basic uPVC conservatory now subtracts value from a home, while a modern aluminium or orangery build breaks even on cost — with full ROI table by spec, the…

Read guide →
Compare

Compare Extension Quotes: Fixed Price vs Day Rate UK 2026

2026 UK comparison of fixed-price vs day-rate extension quotes: who carries which risk, where each model wins by project type, how to normalise quotes for a like-for-like comparison, a real St Albans extension where the…

Read guide →
Insights

Does a Conservatory Add Value to a House UK? 2026

Less than most people expect. A conservatory adds 0–5% at best, and a dated, freezing or overheating one can actively reduce value. An orangery or a solid-roof extension performs far better because it reads as genuine…

Read guide →
Insights

Does a Garden Room Add Value to Your House UK? 2026

Yes — if it's built properly. An insulated, powered, year-round garden room typically adds 1.5–5% to a UK home's value for a £8,000–£30,000 spend. An uninsulated summerhouse adds close to nothing . Crucially, a garden…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Average Cost of a Two-Storey Extension UK 2026

In 2026 UK , a two-storey extension costs £1,900–£2,900 per m² of finished floor area — typically £60,000–£130,000 all-in for a 20–50 m² build. Add 10–15% for design and professional fees, and 20–35% on top in London…

Read guide →
Compare

Solar vs Extension: Which Adds More Value? UK 2026

In 2026 UK , a single-storey extension (£35,000–£70,000) typically adds £25,000–£55,000 of capital value plus living space, while solar PV (£6,000–£10,000) adds a more modest £1,500–£4,000 but cuts bills £400–£900/yr…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Garage Extension Cost UK 2026: £18k–£55k

In 2026 UK , a single attached garage extension (15m²) costs £18,000–£26,000 ; a double (30m²) £28,000–£42,000 ; with a habitable room above £42,000–£55,000 . Future Homes Standard 2026 U-value rules and SAP10 push…

Read guide →
Insights

Average Kitchen Extension Cost UK 2026: £42k–£85k Fitted

Average UK kitchen extension cost in 2026: £42,000–£85,000 fitted. The shell-versus-fit-out split that breaks budgets, and the 20–30% of costs most homeowners miss.

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Home Extension Worth It? ROI 10–20% by Region

Is a UK home extension worth it in 2026? Real ROI 10-20% by region, when to go ahead vs pass, Part L 2026 impact and hidden costs that change the maths.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Bathroom Extension Cost UK 2026: £15k–£45k + Free Quotes

A complete 2026 UK bathroom extension cost guide: real pricing by size, what drives the final bill (plumbing runs, foundations, waste removal), regional variations, ROI on resale, and worked examples from £15k to £45k.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Single Storey Extension Cost UK 2026: £22k–£54k by Size

Real UK single-storey extension cost in 2026: £1,800-£2,400/m² build cost. £22,000 for a 12m² build, £36,000 for 20m², £54,000 for 30m². Worked project breakdown with materials, labour and regional pricing.

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Home Extension Cheaper with SIPS Panels? (2026 UK)

SIPS panels rarely beat brick and block on the headline shell price in 2026 — the structure often costs a little more. But faster build times, less labour on site and much lower running costs mean a SIPS extension can…

Read guide →
Compare

Extension Builders: Day Rate vs Fixed Fee Compared (2026 UK)

A day rate gives flexibility on small or hard-to-define extension work and runs about £150–£250 per day per tradesperson in 2026. A fixed-fee (fixed-price) contract protects your budget on a clearly-defined project but…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Porch Extension Cost UK 2026: £2,800–£14,000 Guide

In 2026 UK, a small lean-to uPVC porch costs £2,800–£4,500, a brick-built front porch £4,500–£8,500 and a larger enclosed porch £7,500–£14,000+. Most fall under permitted development if under 3m² and ≤3m high — here are…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Basement Conversion Worth It in 2026? UK ROI

2026 UK analysis: a basement is the most expensive m² of space you'll ever buy (£3.2k–£5.5k/m²) and only pays back in inner-London and prime Home Counties. Honest verdict and the hidden party-wall costs.

Read guide →
Compare

How to Compare Extension Quotes UK 2026

2026 UK comparison guide: how to read between the lines on three extension quotes, spot provisional-sum games, missing structural fees, and which one is genuinely the best lifetime value.

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Porch Extension? UK

2026 UK rules: a porch extension is Permitted Development if external footprint <3m², height <3m and the porch is 2m+ from highway boundary. Listed buildings, flats and Article 4 zones are excluded.

Read guide →
Insights

How Long Does a Brick Extension Last in the UK? 2026

2026 UK insight: a properly built brick extension can last 100+ years. The pages most often visited are about cracks at 5–15 years caused by foundation, lintel or tray DPC errors — here is the lifespan reality.

Read guide →
How-To

How to Hire a Trusted Extension Builder UK 2026

Step-by-step 2026 UK guide to hiring an extension builder — a 9-stage vetting checklist covering insurance, accreditations, references, contracts, payment milestones, retention and red flags.

Read guide →
Compare

Single vs Double Storey Extension Cost UK 2026

Side-by-side 2026 UK comparison of single vs double storey extensions: real prices, cost per m², planning rules, build time, ROI and which delivers the better return for your home.

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Two-Storey Front Extension? 2026

A two-storey front extension is not Permitted Development and needs full planning permission. Costs, the 8-week timeline, what planners assess and how to get approved in 2026.

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Rear Extension? UK 2026

2026 UK rear extension planning: single-storey PD depth 3m (terrace/semi) or 4m (detached), up to 6m/8m under the Larger Home Extension prior-approval route. Height caps, double-storey rules, party wall + LDC guidance.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Extension Cost Per m2 in 2026: What Changed

How UK extension build rates moved into 2026, why the gap between regions has widened, and the four factors that decide whether your project prices at the bottom or the top of the range.

Read guide →
Compare

Best Extension Builders UK: How to Choose (2026)

A practical 2026 buyer's guide to choosing an extension builder in the UK: the accreditations that actually mean something, how to compare quotes like for like, the red flags worth walking away from, and the questions…

Read guide →
Planning

House Extension Design: Rules & Ideas (2026 UK)

How to design a house extension that works: layout, daylight, roof form and materials, plus a clear explanation of when permitted development covers your scheme and when you need full planning permission.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

House Extension Cost Per m2 UK (2026 Rates)

What a house extension costs per m2 in the UK in 2026: typical build rates by extension type and region, what the rate does and does not include, and the factors that move it up or down.

Read guide →
Insights

House Extension Ideas: 14 That Add Real Value (2026 UK)

Fourteen house extension ideas that work on real UK homes in 2026 - from side returns and wrap-arounds to double-storey and budget-friendly layout changes - with honest cost ranges for each.

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Barn Conversion EPC Compliant in 2026? UK Rules

A barn conversion is not automatically EPC compliant, but a properly built one comfortably is. Once converted to a dwelling it needs an EPC and must meet Part L of the Building Regulations. The real trap is letting:…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Does a Kitchen Extension Add to Value? UK 2026

A kitchen extension adds roughly 5-15% to a UK home's value in 2026 — about £25,000-£75,000 on an average-priced property — and usually returns 60-100% of what you spend. Open-plan kitchen-diners with good natural light…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Terrace House Extension Cost 2026 (UK)

A single-storey rear extension on a UK terraced house costs £2,500–£3,400/m² in 2026, and a Victorian/Edwardian side-return £2,800–£3,600/m² — higher than detached homes because of restricted access, structural steels…

Read guide →
How-To

How to Get Planning Permission for a Basement UK 2026

Most basement projects in 2026 need full planning permission , not permitted development. Single-storey extensions under an existing footprint can sometimes go through PD, but excavation under the garden, raised ground…

Read guide →
Insights

Future Homes Standard 2026: Impact on Extensions UK

From 2026, the Future Homes Standard reshapes how UK extensions are designed: no fossil-fuel heating in new circuits, heat-pump-ready pipework, tighter fabric U-values, mandatory overheating analysis (Part O) and…

Read guide →
Compare

Brick vs Timber Frame Extension UK 2026: Compared

Brick (traditional cavity wall) at £2,400–£3,200/m² vs timber frame at £2,100–£2,800/m². Timber frame builds 30–40% faster on-site, hits Building Regs U-values more easily, and is now mortgage-acceptable on every UK…

Read guide →
Insights

Basement Conversion Cost UK 2026

Full 2026 UK basement conversion cost guide: £1,800–£4,000/m² existing cellar, £4,500–£8,500/m² brand new. Tanking, structural, lightwell breakdowns and 7 ways to save.

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Basement? UK 2026

2026 UK guide to planning permission for basement conversions: when PD covers it, when full planning is needed, lightwells, party-wall rules and Building Regs.

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Home Extension Cheaper With Modular Build in 2026?

Is a modular (offsite/prefab) extension really cheaper than a traditional brick-and-block build in 2026? We compare £/m², build time, cost certainty and disruption side by side, with a worked 25 m² example priced both…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Victorian Terrace Extension Cost 2026 UK

Real 2026 UK costs for extending a Victorian terraced house: side-return infill £40,000–£75,000, rear kitchen extension £35,000–£70,000, wrap-around £70,000–£130,000, two-storey rear £85,000–£160,000 and basement…

Read guide →
How-To

How to Finance a Home Extension in 2026 (UK)

Full 2026 UK guide to extension finance: 5 routes compared, current APRs, eligibility, and a step-by-step path for extensions £15k–£200k.

Read guide →
How-To

How Long Does a Kitchen Extension Take? UK 2026

End-to-end, a UK kitchen extension takes 6-9 months in 2026: 12-20 weeks for design and planning, then 12-22 weeks on-site depending on size, foundations and structural complexity. Side-return 12-16 wks, full-width…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for 2-Storey Extension?

A two-storey extension in the UK 2026 sometimes falls under Permitted Development — but the rules are stricter than single-storey: only 3m rear depth, no side extensions allowed, 7m minimum gap to the rear boundary, and…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Roof Extension? UK 2026

In 2026 UK, most rear-facing dormers and hip-to-gable roof extensions on houses (not flats) fall under permitted development if you stay within the 50 m³ volume cap (40 m³ terraces) and don't extend forward of the…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Barn Conversion Cheaper Than a New Build? (2026 UK)

Is a barn conversion cheaper than a new build in 2026? A UK cost comparison covering price per m2, the hidden risks of converting, VAT differences (5% vs zero-rated), planning routes and how to get accurate quotes.

Read guide →
Compare

Compare Extension Builder Contracts (2026)

Compare extension builders in the UK (2026). Learn how to check contracts, variations, payments, insurance and snagging. Avoid hidden costs.

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Barn Conversion VAT Free in 2026? UK Guide

A barn conversion is not zero-rated like a new self-build, but it qualifies for the reduced 5% VAT rate on eligible conversion work, and you can reclaim most of that VAT after completion via the DIY Housebuilder Scheme…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Barn Conversion Cost Per m2 2026

A barn conversion costs £1,500-£3,000 per m2 in 2026 (build only), so a 200m2 barn totals £300,000-£600,000 all in. Steel-portal barns are cheapest at £1,200-£1,800/m2; stone and listed barns dearest at…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Value Does a Home Extension Add? UK 2026

A well-built single-storey rear extension adds 11–15% to a UK home's sale price in 2026. A double-storey extension adds 20–23%. A loft conversion adds 15–20%. But the cash uplift only beats build cost on properties…

Read guide →
Compare

How to Choose an Extension Builder in 2026 UK

Choosing the wrong extension builder is a £15,000+ mistake. The right vetting takes 14 specific checks — accreditation tier, insurance levels, retention terms, contract type, payment schedule, and reference quality…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Driveway Extension Worth It in 2026? UK ROI

A driveway extension in 2026 UK costs £3,500–£12,000 and typically returns £6,000–£18,000 in property value — a 1.5–1.8x ROI ratio that makes it one of the best-return UK home improvements. EV-readiness adds another…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Garden Room? UK 2026

Most UK garden rooms in 2026 don't need planning permission — they fall under permitted development if eaves stay under 2.5 m, height under 4 m (dual-pitch) or 3 m (mono/flat), the building covers under 50% of the…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Wraparound Extension Cost UK 2026

How much does a wrap-around extension cost in 2026 UK? £55,000–£75,000 small (15 m²), £72,000–£105,000 mid (25 m²), £100,000–£140,000+ large. Real prices by size, design tier, and region — plus £92,400 worked Manchester…

Read guide →
Compare

Which Home Extension Type Adds Most Value? UK 2026

Compare 7 UK extension types 2026: ROI, cost, floor area, best fit by property tier — side-by-side analysis.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Barn Conversion Cost UK 2026: £150k–£900k by Size

How much does a barn conversion cost in the UK in 2026? Budget £1,500–£3,000 per m² — £150k–£300k for a 100m² barn and £300k–£600k for 200m² — before purchase, fees, services and contingency. This guide breaks down cost…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Barn Conversion Worth It in 2026? (UK)

Is a barn conversion worth it in 2026? For the right barn a conversion can add £150k–£400k of character value, but structural condition, Class Q eligibility, services and VAT decide whether it pays. This insights guide…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Side Return Extension Cost UK 2026: £30k–£140k

A UK side return extension in 2026 typically costs £30,000–£70,000, with London averaging £58,000 for a 10–14m² kitchen-diner infill. Use this guide's width ladder, regional pricing, and worked Clapham example to budget…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Porch? UK 2026 Rules

Most UK porches in 2026 don't need planning permission under Class D Permitted Development — provided they stay under 3m² footprint, 3m ridge height, and 2m from any highway boundary. This guide walks through the exact…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Conservatory? UK

Most UK conservatories in 2026 don’t need planning permission under Class A Permitted Development — provided depth, height and glazing meet GPDO limits. This guide walks through the exact rules, the four PD “traps” that…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Flat Roof Extension Cost UK 2026: £22k-£95k (15-30m²)

UK flat roof extension cost in 2026: £22,000-£38,000 for 15m² and £42,000-£60,000 for 25m², plus Part L 2026 insulation upgrades. EPDM vs GRP vs sedum compared.

Read guide →
Insights

Double Storey Extension Cost UK 2026: £68k–£175k

A UK double storey extension in 2026 costs £68,000–£95,000 for a 30m² footprint (£136–£190k total internal floor area) and £120k+ for 60m²+. Here's the real cost ladder by size, region and spec — plus a worked £142,800…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Granny Annexe Cheaper to Build in Winter? 2026 UK

An honest, numbers-first look at whether building a granny annexe in winter genuinely saves money in 2026 — covering builder availability, frost and groundworks risks, typical £30,000–£100,000 costs, modular vs…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Concrete Extension Cost 2026 UK: Price per m2 & Totals

A 2026 UK cost guide to concrete extensions: traditional brick-and-block vs ICF vs precast, cost per m2 (£1,800-£3,000), foundation and slab costs, totals for 15/25/40 m2 builds, plus planning, building regs and party…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Steel-Frame Extension Cheaper in 2026?

For small extensions a steel frame is usually dearer than masonry, but on large open spans, glazing-heavy designs, difficult access or tight programmes it can come in level or cheaper overall. The honest 2026 cost…

Read guide →
Compare

Compare Extension Builders: Who to Trust 2026

How to compare extension builders and choose one you can trust in 2026: the accreditations that matter, reading quotes like-for-like, the red flags to walk away from, contracts and deposits, and the 10 questions to ask…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Flat Roof Extension Cost Per m² UK 2026

Real 2026 UK flat-roof extension cost per m²: £1,700–£2,300/m² for a standard EPDM, GRP or TPO warm-deck build and £2,600–£3,200/m² premium with a roof lantern. Worked £37,000 18m² Midlands example, 9-region matrix and…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for an Extension? UK 2026

2026 UK extension PD rules, scenarios, application process, fees £258-462. Single-storey rear 8m detached. Two-storey rear 3m. Conservation Article 4 + listed buildings. Refusal reasons + appeal route.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Kitchen Extension Cost UK 2026

Full 2026 UK kitchen extension cost guide. £35,000–£75,000 typical — broken into extension shell (£1,800/m²) plus kitchen fit-out (£8k–£30k). Regional pricing + tips.

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Home Extension Cheaper With CLT Timber in 2026?

Thinking of a CLT (cross-laminated timber) extension in 2026? On structure alone CLT usually carries a 10–20% premium over blockwork — but panels go up in days, foundations can be lighter and exposed timber can replace…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Home Extension Cheaper Than Moving House in 2026?

Moving an upsizer in 2026 costs roughly £28,000 in stamp duty, agent fees, legal costs and removals — money that buys no extra space. A rear extension costs £45,000–£65,000 but becomes equity. Here is the full…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Granny Annexe VAT-Free in 2026? (UK Rules Explained)

A granny annexe is only VAT-free if it's a genuinely self-contained new dwelling — then it can be zero-rated or reclaimed via the DIY Housebuilder Scheme. An annexe attached to and dependent on your existing home is…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

Rear Extension Cost UK 2026

Full 2026 UK rear extension cost guide. Average £45,000–£90,000, with per-m² prices from £1,800. Includes size breakdown, regional pricing, and 6 factors that change cost.

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Kitchen Extension Cheaper in Winter? UK 2026

Is a kitchen extension cheaper in winter in 2026? The headline build cost barely moves with the season, but winter often unlocks better builder availability and keener quotes because demand softens after summer. The…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Two-Storey Rear Extension? (2026)

Most two-storey rear extensions DO need planning permission in 2026, because permitted development limits the rear depth to 3m on a two-storey build and bans them within 7m of the rear boundary. Here's exactly when…

Read guide →
Compare

Kitchen Extension vs Rear Extension: Cost Compared (2026)

A 'kitchen extension' and a 'rear extension' often describe the same single-storey build — the cost difference comes from kitchen fit-out, not the shell. Expect £2,000–£3,000/m² for the structure, plus £8,000–£30,000 if…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Does a Semi-Detached Extension Cost in 2026? (UK)

A semi-detached extension in 2026 typically costs £40,000–£75,000 for a single-storey rear extension, £75,000–£130,000 for a double-storey and £70,000–£120,000 for a wraparound. With one shared party wall and usually…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Home Extension Cheaper in Winter? (2026 UK)

Sometimes — building an extension in winter can shave 5–15% off labour because demand is lower from November to February and builders want to fill their books. But shorter days, frost delays to groundwork and temporary…

Read guide →
How-To

How to Plan a Side Extension Step-by-Step (2026 UK)

Planning a side extension in 2026 follows eight clear steps: check feasibility and boundary width, confirm the planning route, commission structural and Building Regs, serve party wall notices, vet and hire a builder…

Read guide →
Planning

Two-Storey Side Extension Planning Permission UK 2026

In most cases yes — a two-storey side extension usually needs full planning permission in 2026, because Permitted Development only allows single-storey side extensions up to half the width of the original house. Adding…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Does a Terraced House Extension Cost in 2026? (UK)

A terraced house extension in 2026 typically costs £30,000–£50,000 for a single-storey rear extension, £40,000–£65,000 for a kitchen side-return, and £55,000–£90,000 for a double-storey rear — roughly £2,200–£3,400 per…

Read guide →
Planning

Two-Storey Side Extension Planning Permission UK 2026

A two-storey side extension almost always needs planning permission in 2026 — permitted development rights for side extensions are limited to single-storey builds, so a two-storey side return normally requires a full…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Rear Porch? 2026 (UK)

Most porches in 2026 do NOT need planning permission — they fall under Permitted Development if the external footprint is under 3m², no part is more than 3m above ground, and no part sits within 2m of a boundary facing…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Home Extension Cheaper Than Moving House in 2026?

In 2026, once you add up stamp duty, estate agent fees, legal costs and removals, moving to a bigger house often costs £30,000–£50,000+ before you gain a single extra room. A well-planned extension can deliver the same…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Home Extension Cheaper Than Moving House? 2026 UK

For many UK homeowners in 2026, extending works out cheaper than moving — once you add up stamp duty, estate-agent fees, conveyancing and removals, moving house can cost £25,000+ before you have gained any extra space…

Read guide →
Compare

Compare Extension Builders: Check Reviews 2026

To compare extension builders in 2026, read reviews across Google, Checkatrade, Trustpilot and BestBuilders, learn the red flags of fake reviews, verify FMB/TrustMark accreditation and insurance, phone two referees, and…

Read guide →
How-To

How to Plan a Roof Extension Step-by-Step (2026 UK)

Planning a UK roof extension in 2026? Follow this 9-step framework: scope your brief, run feasibility, decide planning route, structural design, hire a builder, Party Wall, contracts, build, sign-off. We list typical…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Garden Room Extension Worth It in 2026? (UK)

A garden room extension is usually worth it in 2026 if you need a year-round home office, gym or studio and value the separation from the house — expect £15,000–£45,000 for a properly insulated, heated build. It rarely…

Read guide →
Planning

Planning Permission for a Two-Storey Rear Extension 2026

In most cases a two-storey rear extension DOES need planning permission in 2026 — but a modest one can fall under Permitted Development if it projects no more than 3m, stays 7m from the rear boundary, matches the…

Read guide →
How-To

How to Plan a Bathroom Extension Step by Step

A step-by-step 2026 UK guide to planning a bathroom extension: check feasibility and drainage, confirm PD vs planning, meet Building Regs and ventilation, budget GBP 8,000-25,000, and follow a realistic 6-12 week build…

Read guide →
Planning

Two-Storey Wraparound Extension Planning Permission 2026

A two-storey wraparound extension combines a rear and a side extension across two floors, so it almost always needs full planning permission rather than Permitted Development. This 2026 guide explains why, what the…

Read guide →
Compare

How to Compare Kitchen Extension Quotes in 2026: What to Look For (UK)

Three kitchen extension quotes can vary by GBP 20,000 for the same job - usually because they are not pricing the same thing. This 2026 UK guide shows what a complete quote must include, the red flags that signal a…

Read guide →
How-To

How to Plan a Kitchen Extension Step by Step

A step-by-step 2026 UK guide to planning a kitchen extension: check feasibility and structure, confirm Permitted Development vs planning, meet Building Regs and drainage rules, budget GBP 40,000-80,000, and follow a…

Read guide →
How-To

How to Plan a Home Extension in 2026 (UK Step-by-Step)

Plan a home extension by setting a clear brief and budget first, then checking permitted development vs planning, appointing a designer, getting Building Regs and structural drawings, and vetting at least three…

Read guide →
Planning

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Side Return in 2026? UK

Do I need planning permission for a side return in 2026? Usually not - a single-storey side return under 4 metres and no wider than half the house is normally Permitted Development. Here are the limits, the exceptions…

Read guide →
Compare

Compare Builders: How to Vet Extension Quotes in 2026

How do you compare builders fairly? Get at least 3 quotes priced on the same scope, read them line by line rather than on the total, and check insurance, references and the contract. Here is what a good extension quote…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Home Extension VAT-Free in 2026? (UK)

Standard home extensions in 2026 UK carry 20% VAT. You can drop to 5% on properties empty for 2+ years, to 0% on disability adaptations, or claim a full DIY refund if the work creates a brand new self-contained dwelling.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Does an L-Shaped Extension Cost in 2026? (UK)

L-shaped (side-return plus rear) extensions in 2026 UK cost £58,000-£135,000 on a typical 3-bed semi. The biggest swing factors are internal area added, glazing-to-wall ratio and kitchen spec - London adds 18-28%, the…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Garden Room VAT-Free in 2026? (UK)

Garden rooms in 2026 UK carry 20% standard VAT. Only two narrow exceptions apply: 0% via the DIY refund if the structure is a genuinely separate self-contained dwelling, and 0% on qualifying disability adaptations.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Does a Flat Roof Bathroom Extension Cost in 2026? (UK)

A flat-roof bathroom extension costs 15,000-30,000 all-in in 2026: the shell runs 1,800-2,600 per m2 and the bathroom fit-out adds 4,000-9,000. Drainage, roof spec, glazing and sanitaryware tier drive where you land.

Read guide →
Compare

Compare Extension Builders: How Many Quotes Should You Get in 2026?

In 2026 the sweet spot is 3–5 extension-builder quotes — enough to spot a 30%-low cowboy without wasting reputable builders’ time. Two quotes leaves you blind to the median; six-plus signals you’re a tyre-kicker and the…

Read guide →
Compare

Compare Extension Costs: What Affects Price in 2026 (UK)

Compare UK home extension costs in 2026: rear £1,800–£2,800/m², side return £2,000–£3,200/m², wraparound £2,200–£3,500/m². The biggest price drivers are foundations, glazing area, kitchen spec and the structural opening…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Does a Porch Cost in 2026? (UK Guide)

UK porch costs in 2026 typically run £2,500–£5,500 for a uPVC enclosure and £5,000–£12,500 for a brick-built porch with tiled roof. Price scales with footprint (3–6m²), roof type, glazing, foundations and whether…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Conservatory Worth It in 2026? (UK Verdict)

A modern warm-roof conservatory in 2026 UK typically adds 5-7% to home value (£12,000-£25,000+) and pays back 60-90% of build cost on resale. Old polycarbonate conservatories can reduce value. When it makes sense and…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Does a Conservatory Cost in 2026? (UK Price Guide)

Conservatory prices in 2026 run from around £8,000 for a small lean-to to £30,000+ for a P-shaped or solid-roof orangery. Full UK breakdown by style, roof, base and what affects price.

Read guide →
Compare

Compare Extension Quotes: How Many Should I Get in 2026? (UK)

Three matched written quotes is the UK sweet spot for a 2026 home extension - enough to spot outliers without wasting builder goodwill. Here is how to scope the brief and pick the right one.

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Does a Pitched Roof Extension Cost in 2026? (UK Price Guide)

A pitched-roof home extension in the UK in 2026 typically costs £2,400-£3,200 per m² fitted - around £50,000-£65,000 for a 4x5m extension. Full cost breakdown by roof finish, glazing and structure.

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Flat Roof Extension Cheaper Than Pitched in 2026? (UK)

A flat roof extension is usually cheaper to build than a pitched roof extension in 2026 because it uses less material and labour, but a pitched roof can last longer and add more value. Here is the full cost and value…

Read guide →
Cost Guide

How Much Does a Granny Annexe Cost in 2026? (UK Price Guide)

A granny annexe costs roughly £40,000–£70,000 for a prefab or modular build and £80,000–£100,000+ for a larger bespoke masonry annexe in 2026, including groundworks and fit-out. Here is the full UK cost breakdown and…

Read guide →
Insights

Is a Granny Annexe Cheaper Than Moving House in 2026? (UK)

For many UK families a granny annexe (£40,000–£100,000) works out cheaper than moving to a larger house once you add stamp duty, estate-agent and legal fees, removals and the price gap to a bigger home. Here is the full…

Read guide →
How-To

How to Build a Granny Annexe in 2026 (UK)

Building a granny annexe in 2026 means getting the planning use class right, meeting building regulations, choosing modular or traditional build, and budgeting realistically. Here is the step-by-step process from idea…

Read guide →
💬 Not sure about something? Ask a building expert
Planning permission, costs, building regs, choosing a trade — free answers from our editorial team, published for other homeowners too.
Get an expert answer →