Building projects we take on in Dorset
House extensions
- Single-storey extensions in Dorset
- Double-storey extensions in Dorset
- Side extensions in Dorset
- Side return extensions in Dorset
- Wraparound extensions in Dorset
- Kitchen extensions in Dorset
- Orangeries in Dorset
- Glazed and contemporary extensions in Dorset
- Porches in Dorset
Loft conversions
- Dormer loft conversions in Dorset
- Hip-to-gable loft conversions in Dorset
- Mansard loft conversions in Dorset
- Rooflight loft conversions in Dorset
- Bungalow loft conversions in Dorset
Garage, basement and barn conversions
- Garage conversions in Dorset
- Basement conversions in Dorset
- Barn conversions in Dorset
- Garden annexes in Dorset
New build homes
Renovations and structural work
Design and approvals
Guide prices in Dorset
| Project | Guide range (inc VAT) |
|---|---|
| Single-storey extensions | £2,000–£2,950 per m² of floor area |
| Double-storey extensions | £1,700–£2,550 per m² of floor area (both floors) |
| Dormer loft conversions | £49,000–£69,500 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite |
| Garage conversions | £18,500–£30,500 for a single integral garage |
| House renovations | £900–£1,850 per m² for a medium to full renovation |
| New build homes | £2,050–£3,250 per m² of floor area (build cost) |
Building costs in the South West are close to the UK average, so the figures for Dorset are close to our national guide.
Planning and building control in Dorset
In England a single-storey rear extension is often permitted development: broadly up to 3 metres deep on a semi-detached or terraced house and 4 metres on a detached house, no higher than 4 metres, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary, and covering no more than half the garden. The larger home extension scheme allows up to 6 or 8 metres if you notify the council first and neighbours have a chance to comment. In conservation areas, National Parks and National Landscapes the larger home extension route, side extensions and cladding are not permitted development. Flats and houses whose rights have been removed need a planning application, and listed buildings need listed building consent.
In England a rear dormer is often permitted development if the extra roof volume is no more than 40 cubic metres on a terraced house or 50 on other houses, it does not face the road, sits no higher than the ridge and is set back from the eaves, with matching materials and obscure-glazed side windows. Balconies, front dormers and work in conservation areas need planning permission.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
Building in Dorset
In parts of the South West, protected landscapes and conservation areas shape what can be built, so materials and roof forms are chosen carefully.
Questions about building in Dorset
Do you cover all of Dorset?
Yes. We take on projects across Dorset, including Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth and Christchurch.
How much does an extension cost in Dorset?
A single-storey extension in Dorset typically costs £2,000–£2,950 per m² of floor area, including VAT.
Do I need planning permission in Dorset?
In England a single-storey rear extension is often permitted development: broadly up to 3 metres deep on a semi-detached or terraced house and 4 metres on a detached house, no higher than 4 metres, with eaves no higher than 3 metres within 2 metres of a boundary, and covering no more than half the garden. The larger home extension scheme allows up to 6 or 8 metres if you notify the council first and neighbours have a chance to comment. In conservation areas, National Parks and National Landscapes the larger home extension route, side extensions and cladding are not permitted development. Flats and houses whose rights have been removed need a planning application, and listed buildings need listed building consent.
Who approves building work in Dorset?
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.