What is a kitchen extension?
A kitchen extension is an extension designed around a new kitchen, usually an open-plan kitchen, dining and family space at the back of the house. We build the extension and fit the kitchen as one project, so plumbing, electrics and lighting are planned around the layout from the start.
How much does a kitchen extension cost in County Durham?
In County Durham, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,000–£3,050 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 22 m² project that is roughly £44,000–£67,000. Building costs in the North East run about 10% below the UK average, and the figures for County Durham are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (15 m²) | £30,000–£46,000 |
| Typical project (22 m²) | £44,000–£67,000 |
| Larger project (31 m²) | £62,000–£94,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,000–£3,050 |
What moves the price most:
- Kitchen units, worktops and appliances
- Who supplies the kitchen
- Underfloor heating and flooring
- Extension size and roof design
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a kitchen extension in County Durham?
Here is how the rules work for a kitchen extension in England. 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.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Kitchen fitting, worktops and splashbacks
- Extension structure, roof and glazing
- Flooring and decoration
- Extraction ducted to outside
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
- Electrics, lighting plan and sockets
How long does it take?
Allow 11 to 16 weeks on site, including kitchen fitting. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in County Durham
The North East has many terraced streets and post-war semis, where rear extensions and loft conversions are popular ways to gain space.
Towns we cover in County Durham include Darlington, Hartlepool, Stockton-on-Tees, Durham, Chester-le-Street and Billingham.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about kitchen extensions in County Durham
Is underfloor heating worth it?
In a large open-plan space it frees wall space for units and glazing and gives even heat. It is easiest to fit during the build.
How much does a kitchen extension cost in County Durham?
In County Durham, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,000–£3,050 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 22 m² project comes to roughly £44,000–£67,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Should the kitchen be designed before the extension?
Yes. Knowing where the sink, hob and island will go lets us place drains, ducting, sockets and windows correctly during the build.
Do I need extraction to outside?
Building regulations require kitchen extract ventilation. Ducting to an outside wall is the most effective option and is planned during the build.
Who approves a kitchen extension in County Durham?
Planning matters in County Durham go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.