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 Portsmouth?
In Portsmouth, 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. That range is adjusted for the South East, where domestic building work typically costs around 12% above the national average. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Who supplies the kitchen
- Extension size and roof design
- Island with sink or hob, which needs services in the floor
- Kitchen units, worktops and appliances
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 Portsmouth?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Kitchen layout planned alongside the extension design
- Extension structure, roof and glazing
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
- Extraction ducted to outside
- Kitchen fitting, worktops and splashbacks
- Electrics, lighting plan and sockets
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 11 to 16 weeks on site, including kitchen fitting. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Portsmouth
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
If your home is in Portsmouth or close by in Southsea, Gosport and Fareham, 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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about kitchen extensions in Portsmouth
Do you build kitchen extensions in Portsmouth?
Yes. We build kitchen extensions across Portsmouth, including postcodes PO5. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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.
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.
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.
How much does a kitchen extension cost in Portsmouth?
In Portsmouth, 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.
