Building services in Kirkwall
House extensions
- Single-storey extensions
- Double-storey extensions
- Side extensions
- Side return extensions
- Wraparound extensions
- Kitchen extensions
- Orangeries
- Glazed and contemporary extensions
- Porches
Loft conversions
- Dormer loft conversions
- Hip-to-gable loft conversions
- Mansard loft conversions
- Rooflight loft conversions
- Bungalow loft conversions
Garage, basement and barn conversions
New build homes
Renovations and structural work
Design and approvals
Guide prices in Kirkwall
| Project | Guide range (inc VAT) |
|---|---|
| Kitchen extensions | £2,200–£3,300 per m² including a mid-range kitchen |
| Dormer loft conversions | £46,500–£66,000 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite |
| Hip-to-gable loft conversions | £53,500–£75,500 for a hip-to-gable with rear dormer |
| Structural alterations and knock-throughs | £4,250–£9,250 for a typical knock-through with steel beam |
| Porches | £6,250–£15,500 from a 3 m² porch to a small front extension |
| Orangeries | £2,350–£3,300 per m² of floor area |
Island and remote projects usually cost more than these guides because of shipping, travel and accommodation.
Planning permission in Kirkwall
In Scotland a single-storey extension is often permitted development (Class 1A): where any part is within 1 metre of a boundary, it can project up to 3 metres from the rear wall of a terraced house or 4 metres on other houses, with eaves no higher than 3 metres, an overall height of 4 metres and no more than half the front or rear garden covered. The rights do not apply in conservation areas or to flats, and a building warrant will usually still be needed before work starts.
In Scotland a building warrant is needed before work starts on most extensions, loft conversions and conversions. It is issued by the council’s building standards service. When the work is finished, a completion certificate is submitted and accepted by the council after inspection.
About building in Kirkwall
In Scotland, bungalows and one-and-a-half-storey homes are common, so dormer conversions are a popular way to add bedrooms.
Projects in Kirkwall are taken on by arrangement. We confirm availability first, and shipping, travel and accommodation costs are shown separately in the quote. Kirkwall has a population of around 7,000.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions from homeowners in Kirkwall
Do you work in Kirkwall?
Yes. We take on extensions, loft conversions, conversions, renovations and new builds across Kirkwall, including postcodes KW15.
How much does an extension cost in Kirkwall?
A single-storey extension in Kirkwall typically costs £1,900–£2,800 per m² of floor area, and a double-storey extension £1,600–£2,400 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT.
Is the home visit free?
Yes. The first visit to discuss your project and measure up for a quote is free, with no obligation.
Do I need planning permission for an extension in Kirkwall?
In Scotland a single-storey extension is often permitted development (Class 1A): where any part is within 1 metre of a boundary, it can project up to 3 metres from the rear wall of a terraced house or 4 metres on other houses, with eaves no higher than 3 metres, an overall height of 4 metres and no more than half the front or rear garden covered. The rights do not apply in conservation areas or to flats, and a building warrant will usually still be needed before work starts.
How much does a loft conversion cost in Kirkwall?
A rear dormer loft conversion in Kirkwall typically costs £46,500–£66,000 for a typical rear dormer with en-suite, including VAT.