What is a side extension?
A side extension builds into the space beside a semi-detached or detached house, often over a driveway or side passage. It can be single-storey, for a utility room, downstairs toilet or study, or two-storey to add a bedroom above.
How much does a side extension cost in Amersham?
In Amersham, a side extension typically costs £1,900–£2,950 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £53,000–£82,500. Building costs in the South East run about 12% above the UK average, and the figures for Amersham are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £38,000–£59,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £53,000–£82,500 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £74,000–£115,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,900–£2,950 |
What moves the price most:
- Internal fit-out of the new rooms
- Steel work where the side wall is opened
- Single or two storeys
- Drains, gas meters or soil pipes that need moving
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 side extension in Amersham?
The approval route for Amersham is set by planning law in England. In England a single-storey side extension can be permitted development if it is no more than 4 metres high and no wider than half the width of the original house. Side extensions of more than one storey always need planning permission, as do side extensions in conservation areas, National Parks and National Landscapes.
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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Opening into the existing house
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Building control completion
- Walls, roof and windows to match the house
- Planning drawings and application
- Survey of the boundary, drains and access
How long does it take?
Expect 10 to 16 weeks on site depending on size and storeys. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Amersham
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 Amersham or close by in Chesham, Chalfont Saint Peter and Gerrards Cross, 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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about side extensions in Amersham
Can I build a side extension without planning permission?
In England a single-storey side extension can be permitted development if it is no more than 4 metres high and no wider than half the original house, and the house is not in a conservation area or similar protected land. Two-storey side extensions always need planning permission.
How long does a side extension take in Amersham?
Typically 10 to 16 weeks on site depending on size and storeys. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
How much does a side extension cost in Amersham?
In Amersham, a side extension typically costs £1,900–£2,950 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £53,000–£82,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Will I lose my driveway?
A side extension often takes the side drive. We look at whether parking can be kept at the front and whether a dropped kerb is needed.
Will a two-storey side extension look odd?
Not if it is designed well. Setting it back from the front and keeping the roof lower than the main ridge usually gives a natural look and is what most councils ask for.