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 Harpenden?
In Harpenden, 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. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the East of England, where labour and materials are typically about 6% above average. 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Who supplies the kitchen
- Glazing and roof lanterns
- Extension size and roof design
- Kitchen units, worktops and appliances
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a kitchen extension in Harpenden?
Before anything is built in Harpenden, we confirm which approvals apply 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.
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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Building control sign-off
- Extraction ducted to outside
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
- Flooring and decoration
- Electrics, lighting plan and sockets
- Extension structure, roof and glazing
How long does it take?
Allow 11 to 16 weeks on site, including kitchen fitting. Design and approvals come first and typically take 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the approval route.
Building in Harpenden
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
If your home is in Harpenden or close by in St Albans, Luton and Hemel Hempstead, a free home visit is the first step.
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
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 handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about kitchen extensions in Harpenden
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.
Do you build kitchen extensions in Harpenden?
Yes. We build kitchen extensions across Harpenden, including postcodes AL5. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a kitchen extension cost in Harpenden?
In Harpenden, 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.
Will I need planning permission?
The same rules apply as for any extension. Many single-storey kitchen extensions are permitted development; larger or wraparound designs need an application.
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.