Rear Expansion Options: Maximizing Space and Value

Making your dream home a reality doesn't have to involve the stress of moving. For many UK homeowners, the answer lies in rear expansions.

They offer the perfect solution for adding space and value to your property without the hassle of relocating.

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In this guide, we'll explore the world of rear expansions. From understanding costs and navigating planning permissions to maximizing value and managing project timelines, we've got you covered.

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How Much Will it Cost?

Let's delve deeper into the factors influencing the cost and provide some real-world price examples:

Size of the Expansion

Larger expansions naturally require more materials and labor, thus increasing costs. For instance:

• A small rear extension of around 15 square meters might cost between £18,000 to £37,500 for a basic design.
• For a larger extension of 30 square meters, the cost could range from £36,000 to £75,000 or more.

Materials Used

The choice of materials significantly impacts the overall cost. Here are some common materials and their approximate costs per square meter:

• Brickwork: £70 - £100 per square meter.
• Timber frame: £90 - £120 per square meter.
• Glass: £200 - £500 per square meter (depending on quality and type).

Real-World Examples

• Suburban Brickwork Extension (20 sqm): £30,000 - £40,000
• City Brickwork and Glass Extension (40 sqm): £60,000 - £80,000
• High-End Bespoke: Exceeds £100,000 (Moderate-sized project)

Dreaming of a spacious rear extension? STAAC offers top-notch services in the UK.

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Exploring Different Options

Here are some great ways to expand your space:

Single-Storey Extensions

Perfect for expanding your ground floor living space, whether it's a bigger kitchen-diner or a sprawling living room.

• Ideal for extending kitchen-dining areas, living rooms, or adding a home office.
• Can enhance natural light and ventilation with the addition of large windows or skylights.
• Offers flexibility in design and layout to suit your lifestyle and preferences.
• Consideration of neighboring properties and potential impact on their privacy and light.

Double-Storey Extensions

Consider a double-storey extension for extra bedrooms or living space on both ground and first floors.

• Allows for more space with extra bedrooms, bathrooms, or larger living areas.
• Creates a balanced appearance and better cohesion compared to separate single-storey expansions.
• Enables the redesign of your home's layout for improved functionality.

Wraparound Extensions

Extend your home around the side for even more space. With a wraparound extension, you get a boost in living area.

• Adds lots of extra space on both ground and upper floors.
• Creates a smooth connection between indoor and outdoor areas, great for parties or family get-togethers.

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If you're considering to improve your home in Brighton with a beautiful rear extension, STAAC will advise you.

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Modular Solutions

Modular expansion involves building the extension off-site and assembling it at your property, speeding up construction.

• Completing most work away from your property saves time and reduces disruption.
• Offers cost predictability and efficiency compared to regular building methods.
• Allows for flexibility in design with various modular options to choose from.
• Less customization compared to regular building, though modular options often have different finishes and setups.

STAAC Projects for Reference

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Rear Extension in Seaford- click here to view

Rear Extension - click here to view

New Build in Horsham - click here to view

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Transform your living space with STAAC's reliable rear extension services. Reach out to for a consultation today!

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Documents Needed for Rear Extensions in the UK

Here's a rundown of the key documents you'll need:

• Property Ownership Documents: These papers confirm ownership and include details like property boundaries, easements, and covenants. They might be necessary for planning applications.
• Architectural Plans: Detailed drawings show the proposed extension and are crucial for getting planning permission. They should illustrate floor plans, elevations, and site layouts.
• Structural Assessments: For larger or complex extensions, an engineer's calculations ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards.
• Planning Applications: Submit forms and documents to your local planning authority outlining your project's details and its impact.
• Building Regulations: Even if your project falls under permitted development, you'll need to meet building standards.
• Party Wall Agreements: If your project involves shared walls, you might need an agreement with neighbors.
• Listed Building Consent: Necessary for properties with historical or architectural significance.
• Insurance: Inform your insurance provider and ensure adequate coverage during construction.
• Utility Plans: Obtain maps showing underground services to avoid damage.
• Party Wall Notices: Serve formal notices to affected neighbors regarding proposed work.

Navigating Planning Permission

Planning permission can be a real headache, with all the bureaucratic hoops you have to jump through. Depending on the size and impact of your extension, you may need to go through some planning processes that can be quite costly.

You might need to pay anywhere from £206 for a householder application to £505 for a full application. But don't panic just yet, you can construct many rear extensions without going through the planning process, thanks to the permitted development rights. This can save you both time and money.

Boost Your Property Value

Investing in a rear extension isn't just about gaining extra square footage - it's about boosting your property's value too. A well-designed and executed extension can send your property's price soaring by up to 20%.

With the right blend of location, size, and quality, your rear extension could be the golden ticket to a more valuable home.

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Side Extensions vs. Rear Extensions: Choosing the Right Option

When expanding your living space, you might debate between side extensions and rear extensions. Each has its pros and cons. Understanding these differences can help you decide. Let's explore:

Side Extensions:

Advantages:

• Maximizing Land: Side extensions make efficient use of available land, especially in properties with narrow or underutilized side spaces.
• Privacy: They can provide additional privacy by extending the living space away from neighboring properties.
• Light: Side extensions can enhance natural light penetration into the existing property.

Considerations:

• Planning Permission: Side extensions might need permission, especially if they're large or affect neighbors.
• Party Wall Agreements: If your extension touches a shared wall, you might need agreements from neighbors.
• Access: Getting materials and vehicles to the site could be harder with side extensions, especially in crowded areas.

Rear Extensions:

Advantages:

• Permitted Development: Many rear extensions can be done without extra permission.
• Seamless Integration: Rear extensions blend well with the existing property, creating a unified look.
• Outdoor Connection: They often improve connections between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for features like bi-fold doors or patios.

Considerations:

• Planning Permission: Some rear extensions might still need permission if they're large or complex.
• Impact on Garden Space: Rear extensions can take up outdoor space, especially in smaller gardens.
• Neighboring Properties: Think about how the extension might affect neighbors, like blocking light or reducing privacy.

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Project Timeline

Single-story extensions usually take three to six months, while double-story ones can take six to nine months or longer. Be patient, work closely with your architect and builder, and things will go smoothly.

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Feel free to contact us and take the first step towards your dream home!

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