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 Ramsgate?
In Ramsgate, 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 Ramsgate 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Single or two storeys
- Boundary walls and access for materials
- Roof design and tile matching
- Steel work where the side wall is opened
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 a side extension in Ramsgate?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Walls, roof and windows to match the house
- Planning drawings and application
- Foundations and drainage alterations
- Building control completion
- Structural calculations
- 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 Ramsgate
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
We work across Ramsgate and neighbouring areas such as Broadstairs, St Peters and Margate. Postcodes we cover in Ramsgate include CT11.
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 in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about side extensions in Ramsgate
How much does a side extension cost in Ramsgate?
In Ramsgate, 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.
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.
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.
Who approves a side extension in Ramsgate?
Planning matters in Ramsgate go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.