What is an orangery?
An orangery is an extension with brick or block piers, large areas of glazing and a solid perimeter roof around a central roof lantern. It sits between a conservatory and a traditional extension: brighter than an extension, warmer and more private than a conservatory.
How much does an orangery cost in Dartford?
In Dartford, an orangery typically costs £2,700–£3,800 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 16 m² project that is roughly £43,000–£61,000. Building costs in the South East run about 12% above the UK average, and the figures for Dartford are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (11 m²) | £29,500–£42,000 |
| Typical project (16 m²) | £43,000–£61,000 |
| Larger project (22 m²) | £59,500–£83,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,700–£3,800 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Lantern size
- Amount and type of glazing
- Opening into the house
- Frame material and colour
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for an orangery in Dartford?
Here is how the rules work for an orangery 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
The work we manage on an orangery:
- Insulated perimeter roof with internal pelmet
- Design to suit the style of the house
- Foundations and dwarf walls or piers
- French, sliding or bifold doors
- Roof lantern and glazed panels
- Building control sign-off where required
How long does it take?
Allow 8 to 12 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 6 to 12 weeks.
Building in Dartford
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
If your home is in Dartford or close by in Erith, Bexleyheath and Swanley, 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
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 orangeries in Dartford
Does an orangery need building regulations approval?
If it is open to the house or does not meet the conservatory exemption, yes. Most orangeries are treated as extensions and need building control approval, which we arrange.
How much does an orangery cost in Dartford?
In Dartford, an orangery typically costs £2,700–£3,800 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 16 m² project comes to roughly £43,000–£61,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Who approves an orangery in Dartford?
Planning matters in Dartford go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How long does it take?
Typically 8 to 12 weeks on site once approvals are in place.
What is the difference between an orangery and a conservatory?
An orangery has a solid roof around a central lantern and more brickwork, while a conservatory is mostly glazed. Orangeries are usually warmer in winter and cooler in summer.