Building projects we take on in Essex
House extensions
- Single-storey extensions in Essex
- Double-storey extensions in Essex
- Side extensions in Essex
- Side return extensions in Essex
- Wraparound extensions in Essex
- Kitchen extensions in Essex
- Orangeries in Essex
- Glazed and contemporary extensions in Essex
- Porches in Essex
Loft conversions
- Dormer loft conversions in Essex
- Hip-to-gable loft conversions in Essex
- Mansard loft conversions in Essex
- Rooflight loft conversions in Essex
- Bungalow loft conversions in Essex
Garage, basement and barn conversions
- Garage conversions in Essex
- Basement conversions in Essex
- Barn conversions in Essex
- Garden annexes in Essex
New build homes
Renovations and structural work
Design and approvals
Guide prices in Essex
| Project | Guide range (inc VAT) |
|---|---|
| Single-storey extensions | £2,050–£3,050 per m² of floor area |
| Double-storey extensions | £1,750–£2,650 per m² of floor area (both floors) |
| Dormer loft conversions | £51,000–£72,000 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite |
| Garage conversions | £19,000–£32,000 for a single integral garage |
| House renovations | £950–£1,900 per m² for a medium to full renovation |
| New build homes | £2,100–£3,400 per m² of floor area (build cost) |
Building costs in the East of England run about 6% above the UK average, and the figures for Essex are adjusted to reflect that.
Planning and building control in Essex
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 Essex
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
Questions about building in Essex
Do you cover all of Essex?
Yes. We take on projects across Essex, including Southend-on-Sea, Basildon, Colchester, Chelmsford and Harlow.
How much does an extension cost in Essex?
A single-storey extension in Essex typically costs £2,050–£3,050 per m² of floor area, including VAT.
Do I need planning permission in Essex?
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 Essex?
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.