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 Shipley?
In Shipley, a side extension typically costs £1,600–£2,450 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £45,000–£68,500. Prices across Yorkshire and the Humber are typically 7% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Shipley. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £32,000–£49,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £45,000–£68,500 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £62,500–£95,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,600–£2,450 |
What moves the price most:
- Single or two storeys
- Roof design and tile matching
- Steel work where the side wall is opened
- Boundary walls and access for materials
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a side extension in Shipley?
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.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
On a typical side extension we handle:
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Foundations and drainage alterations
- Planning drawings and application
- Survey of the boundary, drains and access
- Building control completion
- Opening into the existing house
How long does it take?
Allow 10 to 16 weeks on site depending on size and storeys. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Shipley
In Yorkshire, through-terraces and back-to-backs have particular constraints, while semis and detached houses suit larger extensions.
If your home is in Shipley or close by in Bradford, Bingley and Guiseley, 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 fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 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 side extensions in Shipley
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 Shipley?
Planning matters in Shipley go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
How much does a side extension cost in Shipley?
In Shipley, a side extension typically costs £1,600–£2,450 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £45,000–£68,500. 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.
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.
