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 Swanley?
In Swanley, 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 Swanley 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:
- Extension size and roof design
- Kitchen units, worktops and appliances
- Glazing and roof lanterns
- Who supplies the kitchen
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 Swanley?
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
On a typical kitchen extension we handle:
- Kitchen layout planned alongside the extension design
- Electrics, lighting plan and sockets
- Drainage and water supply positioned for the sink and appliances
- Building control sign-off
- Extension structure, roof and glazing
- Extraction ducted to outside
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Swanley
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
From BR8 outwards, we take on projects throughout Swanley and the surrounding parts of Kent.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 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 Swanley
Who approves a kitchen extension in Swanley?
Planning matters in Swanley 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.
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 Swanley?
In Swanley, 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.
