Add space to your home with rear and extension services

The Ultimate Guide to Side Return Extensions for Stunning Home Transformations

Posted on 20 July 2023 | by rupihgfdcve

Longing for a larger kitchen, a spacious dining area, or a bright and airy living space?

A side return extension is something you can opt for.

A side return extension is a type of home extension that utilizes the underutilized space at the side of a property, increasing its floor area and maximizing available space.

Now, let’s understand when you can construct side return extension, planning permissions required, fresh design ideas and cost for side return extension.

When Should You Go for a Side Rear Extension?

Side Return extensions are renowned for their ability to enhance natural light within a property, thanks to the introduction of large windows, skylights, or glazed panels.

Architectural styles and design options for side return extensions are diverse, allowing homeowners to customize the extension to their personal taste and complement the existing architecture.

So, if planning for a house extension, this side-rear extension serves as a great option

➤ Unlocking Hidden Potential of House Extension: Transforming Narrow Spaces

Embrace the untapped possibilities of your narrow home by opting for a side rear extension, also known as side infills extension.

Expand beyond limitations and unlock the hidden potential of your property’s side space, transforming it into valuable living area.

➤ From Cramped to Spacious: Rear Extension for Your Kitchen or Dining Area

Bid farewell to cramped and inefficient kitchen or dining spaces.

With a side return extension, you can revolutionize your culinary haven, creating a spacious and functional area that caters to your lifestyle and culinary ambitions.

➤ Amplifying Natural Light and Outdoor Connections with Side Return Extension

Embrace the radiance of natural light and blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors with a side return extension.

By incorporating expansive windows, captivating skylights, or inviting bi-fold doors, you can immerse your home in abundant sunshine and create a seamless connection to the outside world.

➤ Flexible Living Spaces with Rear Extension: Adapting to Your Changing Needs

Embrace the power of versatility with a side return extension, allowing you to create adaptable living spaces.

Whether you desire a serene home office, a vibrant playroom, or a cozy sanctuary, a side return extension can cater to your evolving needs and desires.

➤ Side Return Extension Elevates Your Home’s Worth

Elevate your property’s value and unlock its investment potential with a side return extension.

By expanding your living space, enhancing functionality, and adding modern appeal, you can create a home that stands out in the market and captures the attention of discerning buyers or tenants.

➤ Tailor Your Space for Side Return Extension: Full Customization for Personalized Luxury

Unleash your creative flair and customize your living space to reflect your unique style and preferences.

With a side return extension, you have the freedom to choose architectural designs, finishes, and interior layouts that align with your vision of luxurious living.

How to do a Side Return Extension?

While starting off with rear and side extension, you’ll need a small army of professionals to get a beautiful home extension. Have a look:

1. Perform Initial Assessment and Planning

The initial assessment on space and planning would help to:

Assess Space: Evaluate the available side space and determine its potential for extension.
Set Goals: Identify your specific needs and goals for the extension, such as creating a larger kitchen or dining area.
Analyze Feasibility: Feasibility is assessed to understand any limitations or considerations.

We do schedule a free site visit to your place to understand your requirements and give you a better design option.

2. Obtain Necessary Permissions:

Check local regulations: Research local building regulations and planning permissions required for a side return extension.
Obtain permits: Submit necessary applications and obtain approvals from the local authorities before commencing the construction.

We have a separate team of professionals that’ll help you assist and guide you for obtaining necessary permits and permissions.

3. Consulting a good Designer/ Architect

Collaborate with an architect to design the side rear extension, considering factors like aesthetics, structural integrity, and integration with the existing building.

They’ll help you choose an architectural style that complements your home’s design and personal preferences.

Additionally, work over incorporating windows, skylights, or glazed panels to maximize natural light within the extension.

Our team of designers performs deep analysis to give a well designed space that is spacious and adds value to your home.

4. Structural Engineer to Ensure Structural Integrity and safety

When undertaking a side return extension, engaging a qualified structural engineer is paramount for ensuring stability, safety, and long-term durability.

They assess the existing foundation, make necessary structural adjustments, and determine the appropriate construction methods for walls and roofing, considering factors like insulation and aesthetics.

With their expertise, you can confidently proceed with your extension, knowing that it is structurally sound and built to withstand the test of time.

5. Plumbing/Electrical Work needs to be Started Early

After finalizing the design, make sure to get your plumbing and electrical work early.

This will make all the necessary re-routing works done before the construction begins.

Don’t forget to check the main manhole of your property should move towards the new extension/passageway.

Here, we you’ll find all the professionals under one roof. You don’t worry about your things. We are a one stop solution to all your home extension needs.

6. Hire Best Builder/construction contractor

Now, it’s time to hire the best side return construction contractor London to perform your home extension.

Make sure to choose a builder with a good reputation and who is trustable and reliable.

Don’t fall into the trap of a cow boy builder.

Click here to check for the questions that you may need to ask the construction contractor.

Do you need planning permission for the side rear extension UK?

Side return extensions often fall within permitted development rights, eliminating the need for planning permission.

But, there are certain things that you need to consider. These are:

Adherence to size limits set by the local planning authority is crucial.
Consider proximity to property boundaries and regulations in conservation areas or for listed buildings.
Design and aesthetics should be in harmony with the existing structure and surroundings.
Ensure the proposed extension won’t significantly impact neighboring properties.
Consider any implications on highways, access, parking, and safety.

What is the cost of a side return extension?

The cost of a side return extension can vary significantly depending on several factors. Here are some key considerations that can influence the overall cost:

➤ Location of the Property

Construction costs can vary based on the region and specific location of the project due to variations in labour rates, material costs, and local building regulations.

➤ Small/Large Construction Company

The size and reputation of the construction company you choose can impact the cost. Larger companies often have higher overheads, which may result in higher prices compared to smaller, local contractors.

➤ Quality of Materials

The choice of materials and finishes can significantly affect the cost. Opting for high-end, premium materials will generally increase the overall project cost compared to more budget-friendly alternatives.

➤ Professionals Involved

The involvement of professionals such as architects, structural engineers, and interior designers can contribute to the cost. Their expertise and services add value to the project but also come with associated fees.

➤ Size and Complexity of the Project

The size of the side return extension and its complexity will influence the cost. Larger extensions generally require more materials and labour, contributing to higher costs. Additional complexities such as structural modifications or intricate designs can also impact the overall price.

➤ Logistics and labour shortages

Factors like site access, parking availability, labour shortage and proximity to suppliers can affect logistics and potentially increase costs.

Challenging logistics may require additional resources or equipment, potentially increasing the project budget.

POV: It is recommended to consult with construction professionals and obtain detailed quotes based on your specific requirements and location to get a more accurate estimate.

Side Return Extension Design Ideas

Let’s have a look at some beautiful side rear extensions ideas that’ll inspire you for your next one.

Beautiful Living Room side rear Extension

Checkout this beautiful and luxurious living room which got even more magnificent after side rear extension.

The long slider windows and classic furniture is just adding more to the beauty of the space.

Cozy Living Room of a Modern Side Return Extension

Experience the joy of living and feel the space with this amazing transformation of the living room.

The side table, matching chairs, bar stools (highchairs) and the table with the wall just make the side return extension complete.

Side Extension for Modern Kitchen

This amazing kitchen in bright white colour adds phenomenal appeal to the entire side extension for modern kitchen in a UK home.

Stunning side return extension for Kitchen UK

Checkout this beautiful vintage styled kitchen with brickwork and wooden flooring that is just a dream come true for your kitchen.

The tables can be used for dining or can also be used to do your office work. Superb transformation.

Bottom Line

Transform your home with a side return extension, unlocking its hidden potential and creating a stunning space for modern living.

Contact TEL Constructions today for expert craftsmanship and exceptional results that will elevate your home to new heights.

Talk to our experts to get a tailored estimate. Click here to schedule your appointment Now.

How Much Does a Rear Extension Cost? (Updated)

Posted on 5 July 2021 | by rupihgfdcve | Leave a Comment

Read the full blog to know the cost for a home rear extension with the help of factors used to evaluate the same.

The rear extension means to extend the rear or the back of a building. A terrace rear extension, semi-detached and detached, double story, and single story are the popular types of a house rear wing.

The idea of constructing a rear extension seamlessly transforms the entire space, especially if your home have less practical space, rear side extension solutions change living homes for the better.

Home Rear Extension London

Create an enlarged open kitchen, extend bedrooms and living area, and add a patio, a study room, and an entertainment portion by adding the extra footage to your existing place.

In the United Kingdom, people are drawn towards various home extension designs to improve structure aesthetics and increase its overall value. Subsequently, it is a great way to organize a home nicely.

Cost of Rear Home Extension UK

Since it is a usual topic of discussion among citizens of the UK, people often question the home manufacturers nearby about the cost of rear home extensions.

Frankly, the rear extension for a home does not have a fixed figure as it ultimately depends on factors, the result you want to achieve. Some may wish for an advanced conversion, while others only need basic construction.

Factors to evaluate the total price for a rear extension design in the UK

Length of the project

Generally, an easy project takes about 3-4 months, but the project time may vary for complex construction (where the roof needs replacement, fixing, and adding additional materials). Thus, it can affect the cost.

Additional Installation to rear extension

In case clients want to furnish the extended portion with innovative elements, utility lights, soundproof walls, rug flooring, kitchen island, etc. Extra chargers the be added to the total cost for the rear extension UK.

Here, if the client purchases the fittings, the charges will be changed accordingly.

Workforce count

The next aspect included in calculating the cost is the workforce. The number of people inside a home construction team varies from company to company. The less labor, the cheap the budget will be in this case.

Design of rear home extension

Depending on the existing home, the back wall length and height, a client’s requirement, and the neighbor homes – extension layout planning is done by design experts.

The best architectures near me for rear house extensions will give practical designs and add a convenient amount to the invoice.

Quality of materials used.

Sustainable materials are safe for both people and the environment. The tiles, bricks, iron rods, concrete, flooring, lighting, electricity wires, and many things with the best quality are more expensive than the average quality materials.

Customization of home extension at the rear side

Bespoke home extension services in the UK are people’s heart catchers, usually high in price due to the top-class planning and designing.

And therefore, it can alter the complete invoice!

Above mentioned are the major factors considered when the architecture of a home extension makes the rate.

The Conclusion

Rear extensions are a perfect way to extend a house. Additionally, they have a wide range of designs and types. You can ask specialists for versatile floor plans.

Single-story extensions are cheaper than double and wrap-around house extensions. Also, the cost of a rear house extension can differ for different countries.

Lastly, always invest in the best construction company dedicated to prioritizing clients’ comfort, and it is always better to consult with them for a no-obligation quotation. As we are the best construction company in London UK.

How Much Does a Side Extension Cost? (Updated)

Posted on 2 June 2021 | by rupihgfdcve | Leave a Comment

This guide will describe all the factors to decide the total cost for a home side extension. Keep on reading till the end for more interesting knowledge.

House Side Extension means adding extra space or rooms at the side of a building in the intact to expand it and increase overall home value.

It is an excellent choice for small-sized apartments needing a separate section and additional area. Likewise, it makes a home practical and attractive.

Cost of House Side Extension in the UK

If you are looking to renovate a home with a beautiful side extension, you may be very concerned about the budget. Nevertheless, even the experts for side extensions in the UK may not tell you the exact figure due to variations in designs, material, and size.

We have listed the main aspects considered to evaluate a home extension’s market price.

Labor Deployed to build a Side Extension

Some projects need fewer workers, while the other types of side extensions such as a terrace and a side kitchen extension may need more workforce. Subsequently, the number of laborers will directly affect daily wages and their health insurance.

It crucially influences invoices that clients need to pay for a construction task.

Area of a Home Extension

The second factor taken into account is the total area under construction, the narrow site will utilize fewer resources, while a spacious home extension for a big apartment or building will be recorded to use massive construction materials.

Hence, it will impact the overall cost of a house extension in the UK.

The material used and its Quality.

Search the best company for side home extensions near me, they will always commit to using high-quality materials. And therefore, charges more than average industries. The better the Quality of work, slightly expensive the cost will be.

Home Extension Size and Design

The size and the design of the side extension make a significant variation in cost:

Single Story Side Extension Cost

The side extension cost for a single story is basic, the construction is simple and less complex – therefore, the price is also quite affordable.

Multiple Story Side Extension Cost

Whereas for double-story or multiple-home extensions, the design goes straightly complicated, requires extra effort and planning, and therefore comes out to be more expensive.

Time Taken to Delivery

the last important factor that decides the cost estimation is ‘the period to complete the project.’ If you ask us the time taken to complete the side extension, we will say that, Generally, the entire operation can take about 3-4 months.

Side Extension Cost Per Square Meter

Many people often ask this question: what is the cost of a home side extension per square meter? The answer is that it can vary from location to location and per company policies and working standards.

Side extensions in London and nearby area may require planning permission, whereas depending on the country and a project location, you may not need to involve in the procedure.

However, if materials, building height, upgradation design, and size fail to match specific criteria, architecture needs to review the extension planning permission.

All the official work is done to balance the street character and neighbor home foundations.

The Conclusion

Folks need to be patient with different types of side extensions as the perfect result comes from dedicated work packed with commitment and attention to detail.

For renovation work of a home, you need to find the best construction company in the UK, the experts who can envisage your perspective and future goals regarding a home.

Find the best professional architect, deliver first-class services, craft practical and approachable designs, and complete the project in time without harming your finances.

We are the leading London construction company, Contact us.

What Is A Side Return Extension

Posted on 6 April 2021 | by rupihgfdcve | Leave a Comment

A fantastic way to create the space you crave without the stress and inconvenience of moving out is by extending your home. One of such home extension options is the side return extension. A side return extension is turning the useless space by the side of your home where you most likely dump your trash or keep outdoor equipment into a functional living space and bring to life the open plan kitchen, living room or dining room you have always wished for in your head.

Side return extensions stretch your home into the alleyway by the side of your home and lets you keep your garden. Some refer to it as the small but mighty extension.

The pros of side return extension

1. It doesn’t take up valuable garden space like other extension types

2. With a side return extension, it takes less time to complete, usually between 3 – 8 weeks. Which means reduced disruption to family activity.

3. It is an innovative way to create much-needed space.

4. It is cost-effective because of the more minor nature of the construction.

5. Brings in more natural light.

The downsides to a side return extension

1. The space that a side return extension adds to your home is not really much.

2. It is a slightly complicated project which makes it costlier than the rear extension (the rear extension adds more valuable space, only that it eats into your garden.

Everything You Need to Know about Rear Extension

Posted on 19 February 2021 | by rupihgfdcve | Leave a Comment

Rear extensions dramatically increase the space and value of your home. Here’s everything you need to know about modern rear extension, ideas, types, planning permissions, costs and other things to keep in mind before kick-starting your project.

Want to go for a makeover of your clumsy kitchen to make it look trendy and more spacious?

Rear extension is a perfect way to get that extra space you have been longing to expand your kitchen, living, dining or other socializing areas.

Going for this type of extension not only helps you fulfil your space constraints but also adds to the value significantly.

Keep reading to discover some amazing rear extension ideas, everything about their types, costs, planning permission and how it can be created on terraced, semi-detached or detached properties.

What is a rear extension?

A rear extension extends from the end of your home into the garden space. This helps you gain additional area to expand your kitchen, dining and living space.

Mostly the modern rear extension is created along the width of the property and extends 3-6m towards the rear. They either have a pitched roof or flat roof.

Advantages of rear extension

Rear extension increase the living space
Adds to property value
No stairs required
Lesser paperwork
Cheaper than moving to new house
Easy to obtain planning permission as the façade of the property remains unchanged.

When it comes to rear extension ideas, there are actually two possibilities.

Rear extension can be used to expand the size of the existing space such as the kitchen or dining area.
New space can be created such as new room, bathroom, study room etc.

What are some modern rear extension types?

Planning to give your housing property a new attire with a modern rear extension? Have a look at some inspiring rear extension ideas that you can explore.

1. Rear extension on a terraced house

If you’re planning to give a new look to your terraced house so that both space and light can be maximized, rear house extension should be your choice.

This rear extension idea is both internally effective as well as externally tempting for your house. This type of rear extension comes with skylights and sliding doors.

Hence, all parts of your home can witness natural light.

The walls are also white painted under this type of rear extension, making room for natural light to bounce around the house.

The ceiling of this type of a house is in vaulted form and this structure also contributes to the light maximization.

2. Rear extension on a detached house

Going for rear extensions to a detached home are the easiest one if the home doesn’t fall in a conservation area or is a listed building.

The best part of rear extensions in the detached home is that it will never run into any sort of problems with neighbours.

Also, it’s easy to get approval from planning permission or permitted development rights.

3. Rear extension to a Listed Building

You need to get official approval from the Planning Permission as adding a rear extension to a listed building doesn’t come under the permitted development rights.

It’s difficult to get permission as these buildings are very beautiful and need to be preserved.

You need to convince the authorities that the new construction will help protects and preserve the original structure, you may get the approval.

Or, else proving that the original structure had a rear extension might help in speeding the approval for rear extension.

For, all other reasons there might be a chance that the application is turned down and either require you to change your design.

4. Rear extension to a Conservation Area

Similar to adding rear extension to listed building, you need to take planning permission to go for any rear and side extension to a conservation area.

You can contact local authorities regarding the local architecture features or the other do’s and don’ts to be followed for the new planned extension.

5. Flat roofed bungalow rear extension

If you’re planning on bungalow rear extension, this type of rear extension can be a proper fit. A bungalow with rear extension can give a contemporary turnout to your property.

It is indeed the best option that helps to add more amenities and facilities to the bungalow because they are built on large plots, and you’ve enough space for a rear extension.

6. Crittall style rear extension or Glass Rear Extension

You must already know about the rising popularity of Crittall style doors in the UK.

Crittall style doors and windows can give your property an instant touch of style and also add the desired glamour and elegance to the space.

So, try to merge your glass rear extension ideas with Crittall style doors and windows and see the magic. These doors also look good from the inside and make your interiors look newer.

Reach out to the best house rear extension experts in UK for modern Crittall doors that are double glazed, fire-rated and are thermally super-efficient.

7. Single storey rear extension

Single storey helps you get some excess space (and value) on the ground floor of your existing property.

The best thing about single storey rear extension is that the backside of your home gets opened and you can use this excess space for gardening purposes.

From extra bedroom to studies, this single storey rear extension can be converted into anything you want it to be and helps you make your home perfect!

8. Double storey rear extension or 2 Storey rear extension

Double storey rear extension is pretty common in the UK and it also gives your property a contemporary touch.

Commonly known as 2 storey rear extension, it’s adding an extension and a floor above it to the rear of the property.

It may happen that you have an existing single storey rear extension and still need more space. Going for 2 Storey rear extensions would give you the space you dream and desire.

It is indeed a great option to add another bedroom upstairs that opens up a great space for a spacious kitchen, living room or anything else that you may want to.

Do you need planning permission for rear extension plans?

There’s no fixed answer to this question. Many councils based in the UK consider rear extension as a part of Permitted Development (PD).

If your planned layout of rear extension falls under those councils and it satisfies all the PD rules and regulations, then you don’t need any permission.

However, if your property plan does not fit with PD guidelines, you have to apply for an approval.

Even though you can apply it yourself, it may not always work. Largely because you need proper drawings of your rear extension plan and for that, it is better to seek expert assistance.

Here are some cases when you need to seek planning permission for a rear extension.

If your house falls under a listed building or in a conservation area, you may need to apply for approval from planning permission.
The size of planned rear extension is more than half the width of the property.
All the single storey rear extension cannot be more than 4m in height.
The new roof of the rear extension should not be higher than the existing roof.
The proposed extension should be taller than 3m and should fall within 2m of the property boundary.
You may need to seek permission in case the rear extension includes chimneys, balcony, verandas or microwave antenna.
Any alteration to the original roof.
Usage of any material to be used on the exteriors other than the existing one would require seeking permission.

Building Regulation for rear extension plans

Approval from Building Regulations for rear extensions is required irrespective of location and size.

The drawings for the rear extension layout that are to be submitted for approval to building regulation authorities should include details on:

Sound insulation
Fire safety
Detailed structure layout
Drainage electrical design/installation
Mechanical design/installation
Ventilation

How to Build a Rear Extension?

After getting the planning permissions as well as the approval from building regulations, the construction for rear extension can be stated as per the approved drawings.

Step1: Preparing the site

Before the work begins, it’s important that neighbours are well informed about the constriction so as to avoid any hassles, complaints or denial of access.

Also, proper arrangements should be made to ensure that site access is clear and there is proper space to store the building material.

Step2: Drainage and Groundworks

The ground is then excavated for foundations and pouring the concrete followed by piping, wiring, drainage and other services.

The building control inspector should be contacted to approve the foundations.

Step3: Building

The actual building process starts now that involved digging of trenches, working on extension of walls, concrete flooring and measuring dimensions for doors and windows.

Fitting and installation of downpipes and connecting them to the drainage system.

Step4: Remodelling

After the structure is complete, all the redundant fittings and internal fixtures are removed. The internal space is reconfigured as per the requirements.

Step5: Finishing touches

Now, it’s time to go for electrical and plumbing works as per the requirement and nature of the rear kitchen extension.

Final decorations, appliance set up and other interior set up can be done.

How much does a rear extension cost?

There is no fixed cost of rear extension. You need to understand first about your necessities and then only the cost can be estimated.

The rear extension cost depends on a lot of factors including labour cost, materials and other application costs of planning permission.

High-quality materials are expensive but are worth if you want your rear extension to look aesthetically appealing and last long. Indeed they come with a good price tag.

But these do increase the value of your home and are worth the investment.

How long it would take to build a rear extension?

Generally, for a single storey rear extension or small rear extension it takes around three to six months for complete construction.

But, it depends purely on the complexity of the project and layouts.

If there are certain other things such as planning permission approval if the building falls in conservation area or is listed, some more time may be accounted.

TEL Constructions: One-stop Company for all your Rear Extension needs

Are you looking for a construction company that can provide you best ideas relevant to a rear extension?

Reach out to TEL Constructions.

With more than 10 years of experience in the construction industry and a dedicated focus on your needs, we have all the in-house talent, tools, machinery, and equipment required to convert your vision into reality.

Our competent team ensures best rear extension designs that are unique and designed completely as per your needs, budget and style.

Planning a rear extension? Get in touch with us at 02081584006 today!

What Building Regulation Do I Need for A Home Extension? (Updated 2023)

Posted on 18 February 2021 | by rupihgfdcve | Leave a Comment

Planning Permissions Rules for Home Extension

When planning a home extension, it is important to obtain the necessary planning permissions before starting the project. In the UK, there are specific house extension rules and building regulations that must be followed to ensure that the extension is legal and safe.

Planning Permission and Permitted Development

Planning permission is a legal requirement for most home extensions. It is the process of obtaining permission from the local council before starting any building work.

This permission ensures that the proposed extension meets the necessary safety, health, and environmental standards.

Permitted development rights allow homeowners to carry out certain types of building work without requiring planning permission. However, these rights have certain limitations, including the size, location, and height of the extension.

To obtain planning permission, homeowners must apply an application to the local council. The application should include detailed plans of the proposed extension and information on how it will affect the surrounding area.

Common Reasons for Planning Permission Refusals

Planning permission refusals can be due to several reasons, such as the extension being too large or tall, not fitting in with the local area, or impacting on the privacy of neighbours.

Appeals Process If planning permission is refused

Homeowners can appeal the decision to the Planning Inspectorate. This process involves submitting further evidence and providing reasons why the proposed extension should be approved.

Failing to obtain the necessary planning permissions can result in legal issues, as well as costly fines and even demolition of the extension.

Therefore, it is essential to ensure that all the required permissions are obtained before starting any building work.

House Extension Rules for different types of Extensions

We’ve compiled various home extension rules for different type of house extensions.

Home Extension Rules 2023 for Side Extensions

Side extension should sit to the side of the house (not front) and should not face a highway.
The height cannot exceed 4 m.
It can only be single storey. Multi-storey is not allowed.
The extension can only be 50% of the width of the existing house.
The eaves and ridges shall not be taller than the existing house.

Semi detached House Extension rules 2023

These semi detached house extension rules ensure that the extension is safe, doesn’t compromise the structural integrity of the property, and doesn’t have a negative impact on the surrounding area.

If you plan to build a single-storey rear extension, it can’t extend more than 4 meters from the existing rear wall of the house.
For double-storey extensions, the maximum extension is 3 meters. Additionally, if your house is located on designated land or in a conservation area, there may be further restrictions on the size and placement of the extension.
The maximum height allowed is 4 meters. If you plan to build a double-storey extension, the height of the extension can’t exceed the height of the existing house.
The construction materials for the extension should be in keeping with the original property. The design should be sympathetic to the character of the surrounding area.
If the extension overlooks neighbouring properties, you may need to include privacy measures, such as frosted glass or blinds.
You will need to obtain a party wall agreement that ensures that the construction doesn’t damage the shared wall.

Terraced House Extension Rules 2023

In most cases, terraced houses fall under permitted development rights, which means that certain extensions can be built without planning permission.

However, there are still some terraced house extension rules to keep in mind.

Single-storey rear extensions can usually be built without planning permission as long as they do not extend more than 3 metres from the original house for a terraced house, or 4 metres for a detached house, and do not exceed 4 metres in height.
For double-storey rear extensions, planning permission is required.
Side extensions are not allowed under permitted development rights, and any front extensions require planning permission.
If the proposed extension does not fall under permitted development rights, planning permission will be required.
Party wall agreement may be required, and the house extension must be required to meet the building regulations.

Front House Extension Rules 2023

Generally, planning permission is required for front extensions, so it’s better to check with your local council before starting any work.

Here’s a list of Front house extension rules to be followed.

Front extensions should be consistent with the character of the area, and they should not detract from the street scene.
The design and appearance of the front extension should be sympathetic to the existing property and should not harm the visual amenity of the area.
There are limits on how far a front extension can protrude beyond the building line, and these limits can vary depending on the location and size of the property.
The height of a front extension should be consistent with the existing property and the surrounding area.
A front extension should not create access or visibility problems for drivers, cyclists or pedestrians.
The materials used in the front extension should be of a similar quality and appearance to those used in the existing property, and they should not harm the visual amenity of the area.
Other regulations, such as building regulations and party wall agreements, may also need to be considered depending on the scope of the project.

Rear House Extension Rules

The size of a rear extension should not exceed 50% of the original house size or go beyond four meters in depth for a detached house, and three meters in depth for a semi-detached or terraced house. It should also be proportionate to the original house.

The maximum height of a single-story rear extension should not be more than four meters. If the extension has more than one storey, then the maximum height should not be more than three meters.
The materials used in the rear extension should match the original building as closely as possible. The design of the rear extension should also complement the style of the existing building.
The rear extension should not obstruct the access or egress of the neighbouring properties.
The rear extension should not be built within two meters of the boundary of the property unless the neighbours give written consent.
The drainage and sewage system of the property should be considered when designing the rear extension.

It is essential to ensure that you obtain the necessary planning permissions and building regulations before starting the construction of a rear extension.

Building Regulations UK for Home Extensions

Here are the key building regulations that you need to comply for your home extension project.

Home extension Rules and Regulations for Foundation

Foundations are the prime elements of any building that safely transmit the load of the building to the ground and provide a sound structural stability.

Depending on the requirements and load bearing capacity of soil, the foundations can be:

Shallow-Fill: Here the minimum thickness of load transfer to soil is provided.
Deep-Fill: Here the trench is filled completely.

Depending on the practicability and ground conditions, the fill varies from project to project.

There are several other factors that need to be considered while designing the building foundation. These are:

Type of Soil
Load-bearing capacity of the soil
Adjacent structures & Trees
Drains and sewers
Ground conditions
Landfill sites
Type of the new structure (extension)

Building Control Officers conduct three separate visits by the i.e. at the time of start, excavation and then, at the time of concreting.

Their word is final in all respects and may sometimes override your approved designs.

Home Extension Rules and Regulations for Ground Floors

The main function of a Ground floor is to bear the load and provide support to structure. Also, it must offer thermal insulation and pose resistance to ground moisture.

The floors in the UK are majorly constructed as the solid floor, suspended timber floor, and suspended concrete floor that uses pre-casted concrete planks.

The building regulations include:

The floors should be equipped with DPM (damp proof membrane) and should be thermally insulated.
The joists sizes, beam spans calculations must be done by a structural engineer and should be included in the plan submitted for approval.
For contaminated grounds such as those contaminated with gases such as radon, these areas need to be well ventilated. An additional gas membrane would be required to stop these harmful gases from entering the building and harming the structure.

Ground Level walls Rules for Home Extension

Depending upon the foundation, a substructure may be constructed below the ground level. The main walls (above the ground) or superstructure will be built on this.

The main objective of building a substructure is to provide adequate support to the superstructure.

This below-ground brick-and-mortar structure should resist frost and underground sulphates.

House Extension Rules for Walls

The main walls or the external walls of the home extension should be all-weather proof which means they should be able to resist whatever weather throws at them.

Additionally, the walls should add to the building’s structural integrity and minimize heat loss.

The strength of the cavity walls depends on the corrosion resistance ability of the wall ties that should be inserted at the proper spacing that will induce thermal bridging.

Internal walls can be stud partitions or load-bearing when structural integrity is the primary consideration.

Whatever the choice, the internal walls should comply with fire resistance and sound insulation regulations.

Additional strict measures may require in the case of multi-storeyed buildings.

Structural Openings Rules for Home Extension

After the newly constructed home extension has been made waterproof, a structural opening is usually made through the existing main/external walls.

This is done by removing the existing window or French door, ensuring that the load on the existing lintel stays the same. Normally, no extra support is needed.

But, for a wide opening, additional support shall be required. This is usually done by using steel beams.

The beams are installed as per the calculations done by the structural engineer and are mentioned in the drawings.

These structural components, such as timber or steel, need to be fireproof to give them an additional resistance of at least 30 minutes to fire breakout.

House Extension Rules for Upper floors

Apart from accommodating furniture, internal walls and occupants, floors play a vital role in providing rigidity to the walls and making the structure lateral resistant.

Your structural engineer or home extension builder in the UK will specify the type of floor, and ceiling joists requirements with correct spacings and spans in the layout plan.

Along with these, acoustics and fire resistance should also comply with building regulations.

House Extension Rules for Single Storey 2023

According to revised regulations and rules for single storey house extension, these extensions must not extend more than 4 m beyond the rear wall of the original house if it’s a detached house, or three metres for any other house.

With prior approval and not on the mentioned land, the limit for single-storey rear extensions increases to eight metres for a detached house, or six metres for any other house.

Prior approval application is necessary to inform the relevant Local Planning Authority of the proposed work. Additionally, the height of single-storey rear extensions must not exceed four metres.

House Extension Rules for More than one Storey 2023

Extensions exceeding one storey in height must not surpass the rear wall of the original property by more than 3 meters or be located within seven meters of any boundary opposite to the rear wall of the house.

The roof pitch should exactly match the existing house as closely as possible.

If an upper storey is built on an existing extension, the roof pitch should still match the original house. Upper-floor windows located in a ‘side elevation’ should be obscure-glazed and non-opening, unless the opening part is more than 1.7 metres above the floor.

Any side extension that is more than one storey high requires householder planning permission.

Home extension Rules for Roofs

Along with dimensions, spacings and spans of the roof, the UK Building Regulation also demands compliance to type/quality of timber used, and specifications of steel beams used for roof structures.

According to the regulations, the roof coverings such as slates, tiles or flat roof membranes should be weatherproof and appropriate for the roof pitch.

A breather membrane underlay is also desired to ensure correct levels of insulation and ventilation.

Proper flues must be designed to ensure the combustion gases escape safely.

House extension rules for Windows and Doors

The building regulations UK for windows and doors cover compliance to everything from ventilation, thermal efficiency, and fire safety to guard rails, glazing safety, security, and sound insulation.

Suitable guard rails are required for French windows or balconies.

Home Extension Building Regulations and Rules for Ventilation

The home extension should be well-ventilated to ensure proper health and to make the space airy.

While inserting/constructing a new wall, proper care should be taken that so that it should not impact the ventilation of the other rooms.

Adequate extract ventilation should be provided for bathrooms, kitchens, utility rooms or toilets to reduce congestion and condensation levels and remove smells.

TEL Constructions- The most trusted and professional Home Extension Builder in UK

Home extension is a perfect solution to address space issues as it not only adds to the aesthetics but also increases your property’s value. Wanna go for a home extension but are unsure about the UK building regulations compliance?

We, at TEL Constructions, are the UK’s most trusted, professional and reputed home extension builder and construction contractor since 2011.

Our skilled and in-house extension experts ensure a seamless transition between your current one to the space of your dreams with 100% compliance with building regulations.

Drop a line or call us to build the space you’ve always desired!

POV: Designers and architects are familiar with building regulations for extensions, while construction companies have a better edge as they have ample experience and exposure.

Bottom Line

Decided about the home extension? Get your plans approved by your local council’s Building Authority before commencing the work.

Complying with home extension rules and building regulations has an added advantage: it becomes easier to incorporate changes at the design phase rather than forcing them in the later stages.

Reaching out to a reputed construction firm will ensure the smooth execution of your home extension project while you stay assured that all building regulations have complied.