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 Shropshire?
In Shropshire, 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 Shropshire 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 main things that change the cost:
- Internal fit-out of the new rooms
- Drains, gas meters or soil pipes that need moving
- Steel work where the side wall is opened
- Single or two storeys
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 Shropshire?
The approval route for Shropshire 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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Structural calculations
- Foundations and drainage alterations
- Walls, roof and windows to match the house
- Electrics, heating and plastering
- Opening into the existing house
- 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 Shropshire
Across the West Midlands, inter-war and post-war semis make up much of the housing, giving good scope for two-storey side extensions and hip-to-gable lofts.
Towns we cover in Shropshire include Telford, Shrewsbury, Loughton, Wellington and Oswestry.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 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 Shropshire
Who approves a side extension in Shropshire?
Planning matters in Shropshire go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
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.
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 Shropshire?
In Shropshire, 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.