Extension plans and drawings across Bishop's Stortford
For Bishop's Stortford homeowners we handle extension plans and drawings, with fees agreed in writing before any work starts.
- Guide price in Bishop's StortfordFrom £1,250 inc VAT
- PlanningWe find the right route for you
- Timescale2–6 weeks for drawings
- Postcode districtsCM23
Included in a typical project
- Structural calculations from an engineer (full pack)
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Measured survey of the house and garden
- Two or three layout options to compare
- Planning drawings: existing and proposed plans and elevations, site and location plans
- 3D views to check the look and the light (full pack)
The most expensive changes are the ones made after the steel is ordered. A good design stage settles layout, heights, glazing and services on paper, so the build price is firm.
Planning rules that apply in Bishop's Stortford
In England the main routes are permitted development (ideally confirmed with a lawful development certificate, £274), larger home extension prior approval (£249, 42 days) and a householder planning application (£548, normally 8 weeks), with council fees as set from 1 April 2026.
In a conservation area, national park, National Landscape, the Broads or a World Heritage Site the permitted development limits are tighter (no side or two-storey extensions without an application). Listed homes need listed building consent, and if permitted development rights have been removed, any extension needs an application.
Building over or within 3 m of a public sewer needs the water company's consent, usually through a build-over agreement, before the foundations go in.
Building regulations approval is separate from planning. In England you can use the council's building control team or a registered building control approver; a full plans application gets the drawings checked before work starts, and the inspector signs the work off with a completion certificate.
Applications are decided by the local planning authority (your district, borough or unitary council).
Working in Bishop's Stortford
We cover Bishop's Stortford and the postcode districts CM23. The same team covers Hoddesdon (10 miles), Hertford (11 miles), Cheshunt (14 miles), Stevenage (16 miles), all within easy reach.
Harlow, in Essex, is roughly 7 miles from Bishop's Stortford and also on our list. The East of England mixes market-town terraces, inter-war semis and modern estates. Clay soils are common in parts of the region, which can affect foundation design.
Fees in Bishop's Stortford
Guide fees for Bishop's Stortford including VAT, using our East of England factor of ×1.06. Council and building control charges are not included.
| Option | What it covers | Guide price |
|---|---|---|
| Essential | Measured survey and planning drawings | £1,250 – £2,350 |
| Standard | Planning drawings plus building regulations drawings | £2,300 – £4,050 |
| Premium | Full pack with structural calculations and 3D visuals | £3,600 – £5,850 |
Try the guide-price tool to see a range for your own size and finish.
How the project works
Site visits are free and there is no obligation. Where drawings are needed, the design stage is priced in writing before it starts.
Free site visit
First, a site visit: we look at the house, garden, access and drains and listen to what you need.
Design and approvals
Drawings are prepared and agreed with you, then submitted for the right planning route and building regulations approval.
Fixed written price
The price is fixed in writing once the design is settled, with a clear programme and payment stages.
Build and sign-off
Our team builds the extension, keeps you updated weekly and finishes with building control sign-off.
Questions answered
Will my neighbours in Bishop's Stortford be involved?
If a planning application or prior approval is needed, the council notifies neighbours. If the work is on or near a shared boundary, party wall notices may also be needed.
Can I see a price before committing to anything?
Yes. The guide prices on this page are adjusted for Bishop's Stortford, and the guide-price tool gives a range for your own size. After the survey you get a written price before anything is agreed.
How long does this take for a Bishop's Stortford home?
2–6 weeks for drawings, depending on the council and the complexity of the project.
Do I need an architect?
Not necessarily. For most extensions an experienced designer or architectural technologist is enough. For listed buildings or complex sites an architect’s input can help.
Can I use your drawings with another builder?
Yes. Once paid for, the drawings are yours to use for your project.
Book a free site visit in Bishop's Stortford
We will measure up, check the planning position and give you honest guide figures.
- Free, no-obligation site visit
- Planning route checked before you spend on drawings
- Written price once the design is agreed
- Building control sign-off at the end
Prefer to talk? Call 0800 088 6341 or .
Book a free site visit
Tell us a little about the project and we will arrange a time.