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 Ledbury?
In Ledbury, a side extension typically costs £1,650–£2,550 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £46,000–£71,500. Building costs in the West Midlands are close to the UK average, so the figures for Ledbury are close to our national guide. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £33,000–£51,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £46,000–£71,500 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £64,500–£99,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,650–£2,550 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Drains, gas meters or soil pipes that need moving
- Roof design and tile matching
- Single or two storeys
- Steel work where the side wall is opened
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 Ledbury?
Here is how the rules work for a side extension 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.
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:
- Opening into the existing house
- Walls, roof and windows to match the house
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Structural calculations
- Foundations and drainage alterations
- 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 Ledbury
The West Midlands has large numbers of 1930s semis and Victorian terraces, which suit rear extensions, side extensions and dormer loft conversions.
If your home is in Ledbury or close by in Great Malvern, Tewkesbury and Hereford, 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 pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 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 Ledbury
How close to the boundary can I build?
You can build up to the boundary, but the eaves height near it is limited under permitted development, and planning officers often want a gap at first floor. If you build on or near a shared boundary, party wall rules may apply.
Who approves a side extension in Ledbury?
Planning matters in Ledbury go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
How much does a side extension cost in Ledbury?
In Ledbury, a side extension typically costs £1,650–£2,550 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £46,000–£71,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.