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Planning an extension

Many homeowners choose to build an extension to their home as a way to expand their living space. An extension can dramatically grow downstairs living space by increasing the size of your kitchen or adding a dining area. 

Two-storey extensions give you the scope to add another bedroom, study or increase bathroom size or the flexibility to adjust the layout of rooms in your house. How big an extension you choose will depend on your space available, obtaining planning consent, if necessary and of course, your budget.

Single and two-storey extensions are significant changes to the structure and foundations of a property and will require the services of a structural engineer as well as other building specialists.

A good way to research your project is by using your local authority's online database of planning applications to see what has been approved in your area, local authorities usually publish their register on the planning pages of their website.

It is also useful to look at neighbouring properties as some extensions may have fallen under the permitted development rights. This will give you a good idea as to what is feasible or allowed. Remember though, this doesn't automatically mean you will have an application accepted or be able to build under the permitted development rules.

If in doubt always check with your local planning authority.

Find your local planning authority

Things to consider

You may find it helpful to use the following third-party commercial service to plan your home improvement project:

This link will take you to information about their services.

  1. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/permission/home-improvement/planning-consultancy-calculator

Useful links

Find a Professional

Use our partner directories from CIAT, FMB or RTPI to find an architectural technologist, builder or planning consultant to help with your project or development.

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      The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). All content © 2024 Planning Portal.

      The Planning Portal is delivered by PortalPlanQuest Limited which is a joint venture between TerraQuest Solutions Limited and the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG). All content © 2024 Planning Portal.