Extension plans and drawings across Grays
Need extension plans and drawings in Grays? We survey the house, prepare what the council needs and deal with the officers until a decision is made.
- Guide price in GraysFrom £1,250 inc VAT
- PlanningWe find the right route for you
- Timescale2–6 weeks for drawings
- Postcode districtsRM15, RM16, RM17, RM18, RM20

Will the council need to approve it?
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.
Homes in conservation areas, national parks, National Landscapes (formerly AONBs), the Broads and World Heritage Sites have tighter rules, so we always check the property's status and planning history before design starts.
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.
If the work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 m (sometimes 6 m) of a neighbour's building, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notice must be served before work starts: two months for work to a party wall, one month for new walls on the boundary and for excavations.
Applications are decided by the local planning authority (your district, borough or unitary council).
Design and approval fees for Grays
These are guide fees for Grays, adjusted for East of England (×1.06) and including VAT. Council application and inspection fees are paid separately.
| 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.
What we take care of
- Measured survey of the house and garden
- Planning drawings: existing and proposed plans and elevations, site and location plans
- Building regulations drawings and specification
- Structural calculations from an engineer (full pack)
- 3D views to check the look and the light (full pack)
Covering Grays
Our survey diary covers Grays, including RM15, RM16, RM17, RM18, RM20. Neighbouring towns we cover include South Ockendon (3 miles), Stanford-le-Hope (6 miles), Basildon (9 miles), Brentwood (10 miles).
Gravesend, in Kent, is roughly 3 miles from Grays 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.
What happens next
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
A designer visits, takes measurements and photos, and discusses layouts, budget and timing with you.
Design and approvals
We produce the drawings and structural design, and manage the approvals so they are in place before work starts.
Fixed written price
You receive a written, itemised price and programme. Nothing starts until you are happy with it.
Build and sign-off
Work is carried out to the agreed programme, inspected by building control and signed off at the end.
Common questions in Grays
Will my neighbours in Grays 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.
Do I need building regulations approval in Grays?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
Do you cover all of Grays?
Yes. We cover Grays and the surrounding parts of Essex. Site visits are free and there is no obligation.
Can I use your drawings with another builder?
Yes. Once paid for, the drawings are yours to use for your project.
How much do extension plans cost?
Our design packs range from about £1,250 to £5,850 including VAT, from planning drawings only to a full pack with building regulations drawings, structural calculations and 3D views. Council fees are separate.
Book a free site visit in Grays
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.