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 Haywards Heath?
In Haywards Heath, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,500–£3,800 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 22 m² project that is roughly £55,000–£83,500. Building costs in the South East run about 12% above the UK average, and the figures for Haywards Heath are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (15 m²) | £37,500–£57,000 |
| Typical project (22 m²) | £55,000–£83,500 |
| Larger project (31 m²) | £77,500–£118,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,500–£3,800 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Kitchen units, worktops and appliances
- Glazing and roof lanterns
- Underfloor heating and flooring
- Extension size and roof design
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a kitchen extension in Haywards Heath?
Approvals for a kitchen extension in Haywards Heath 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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
On a typical kitchen extension we handle:
- Kitchen fitting, worktops and splashbacks
- Kitchen layout planned alongside the extension design
- Extraction ducted to outside
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
- Extension structure, roof and glazing
- Electrics, lighting plan and sockets
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 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 Haywards Heath
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
Haywards Heath sits in West Sussex, about 12 miles north of Brighton. We cover the whole of Haywards Heath, including postcodes RH16.
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 pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and 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 Haywards Heath
How much does a kitchen extension cost in Haywards Heath?
In Haywards Heath, a kitchen extension typically costs £2,500–£3,800 per m² including a mid-range kitchen, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 22 m² project comes to roughly £55,000–£83,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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.
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.
Who approves a kitchen extension in Haywards Heath?
Planning matters in Haywards Heath go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
