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 Brecon?
In Brecon, a side extension typically costs £1,550–£2,450 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £43,500–£68,500. Prices across Wales are typically 8% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Brecon. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £31,000–£49,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £43,500–£68,500 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £60,500–£95,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,550–£2,450 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Roof design and tile matching
- Boundary walls and access for materials
- Internal fit-out of the new rooms
- 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 Brecon?
Approvals for a side extension in Brecon follow the rules for Wales. In Wales a single-storey side extension can be permitted development if it is no more than 4 metres high and the widest part of the house ends up no more than 50% wider than the original. Two-storey side extensions must be at least 10.5 metres from the side boundary and set back 1 metre from the front, so most need planning permission. In conservation areas single-storey side extensions are limited to 3 metres.
Building regulations in Wales are set by the Welsh Government. Approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate 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
On a typical side extension we handle:
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Survey of the boundary, drains and access
- Walls, roof and windows to match the house
- Building control completion
- Foundations and drainage alterations
- Opening into the existing house
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 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 Brecon
Wales has many terraced valley streets, stone cottages and post-war estates, so extension designs are shaped by slopes, materials and local character.
From LD3 outwards, we take on projects throughout Brecon and the surrounding parts of Powys.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about side extensions in Brecon
Can a side extension go over a drain?
Often yes, with a build-over agreement from the water company or by rerouting the drain. We check this during the survey.
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.
Do you build side extensions in Brecon?
Yes. We build side extensions across Brecon, including postcodes LD3. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How long does it take?
Roughly 10 to 16 weeks on site once approvals are in place, depending on whether it is one or two storeys.
How much does a side extension cost in Brecon?
In Brecon, a side extension typically costs £1,550–£2,450 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £43,500–£68,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do I need planning permission for a side extension in Brecon?
In Wales a single-storey side extension can be permitted development if it is no more than 4 metres high and the widest part of the house ends up no more than 50% wider than the original. Two-storey side extensions must be at least 10.5 metres from the side boundary and set back 1 metre from the front, so most need planning permission. In conservation areas single-storey side extensions are limited to 3 metres.
