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 Essex?
In Essex, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,400–£3,600 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 22 m² project that is roughly £53,000–£79,000. The guide for Essex reflects typical costs in the East of England, roughly 6% above the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (15 m²) | £36,000–£54,000 |
| Typical project (22 m²) | £53,000–£79,000 |
| Larger project (31 m²) | £74,500–£111,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,400–£3,600 |
What moves the price most:
- Extension size and roof design
- Who supplies the kitchen
- Underfloor heating and flooring
- Glazing and roof lanterns
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 Essex?
Approvals for a kitchen extension in Essex follow the rules for 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.
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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Extension structure, roof and glazing
- Kitchen layout planned alongside the extension design
- Extraction ducted to outside
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
- Kitchen fitting, worktops and splashbacks
- Flooring and decoration
How long does it take?
Allow 11 to 16 weeks on site, including kitchen fitting. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 6 to 12 weeks, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Essex
Many towns in the East of England have estates built since the 1970s, where garage conversions and rear extensions are popular.
Towns we cover in Essex include Southend-on-Sea, Basildon, Colchester, Chelmsford, Harlow and Grays.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about kitchen extensions in Essex
Can I buy my own kitchen?
Yes. You can supply it and we fit it, or we supply it as part of the price. Either way we coordinate deliveries with the build programme.
Who approves a kitchen extension in Essex?
Planning matters in Essex go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How long will I be without a kitchen?
Usually 3 to 6 weeks at the end of the job, once the back wall is opened and the new kitchen goes in. We can help set up a temporary kitchen.
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 Essex?
In Essex, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,400–£3,600 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 22 m² project comes to roughly £53,000–£79,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.