Flat roof extensions in Harlow
Our design and build teams take on flat roof extensions in Harlow, from the first measured survey through planning and building control to the finished room.
- Guide price in HarlowFrom £22,000 inc VAT
- PlanningOften permitted development (3–4 m), or prior approval up to 6–8 m
- Build time10–16 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsCM17, CM18, CM19, CM20
Is a flat roof extension right for your house?
- Homeowners who want maximum light from above
- Modern and 1930s onwards houses
- Extensions under first-floor windows where a pitch will not fit
Do I need planning permission in Harlow?
In England a single-storey rear extension can usually go up to 3 m beyond the original rear wall of a semi-detached or terraced house, or 4 m on a detached house, without a planning application, provided it is no more than 4 m high, keeps eaves to 3 m within 2 m of a boundary and, with other buildings, covers no more than half the land around the original house. The larger home extension prior approval scheme raises those depths to 6 m and 8 m, with neighbours notified and a 42-day decision.
Before any drawing is finalised we check whether the house is listed, in a conservation area or subject to an Article 4 direction.
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).
Guide prices for Harlow
Labour and material costs vary across the UK, so for Harlow we use our East of England factor (×1.06). The ranges include VAT and exclude design, structural and council fees.
Typical rates in Harlow: £1,860 to £3,550 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 m × 4 m 12 m² | £22,000 – £26,500 | £26,000 – £33,500 | £33,000 – £43,000 |
| 4 m × 5 m 20 m² | £37,000 – £43,500 | £43,000 – £55,500 | £55,000 – £71,500 |
| 5 m × 6 m 30 m² | £55,500 – £65,500 | £65,000 – £83,000 | £82,500 – £107,000 |
For a figure based on your own dimensions, use our guide-price tool.
Extensions in and around Harlow
We cover Harlow and the postcode districts CM17, CM18, CM19, CM20. We also work in nearby Waltham Abbey (8 miles), Brentwood (14 miles), Chelmsford (16 miles), Billericay (17 miles).
For homes towards Hertfordshire, Hoddesdon is around 5 miles away. 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.
Our process, step by step
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
We draw the design, agree it with you and handle planning or permitted development checks and building regulations.
Fixed written price
With the design and specification agreed, you get a fixed written price and a start date.
Build and sign-off
We build it with one project manager, book the building control inspections and hand over the completion certificate.
Common questions in Harlow
Do I need building regulations approval in Harlow?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
Do you cover all of Harlow?
Yes. We cover Harlow and the surrounding parts of Essex. Site visits are free and there is no obligation.
How long does a flat roof extension take to build in Harlow?
On site, typically 10 to 16 weeks once approvals are in place. Before that, allow 4–12 weeks design and approvals.
Are flat roof extensions cheaper?
Usually slightly, because there is less roof structure and no tiles. Our guide range is about £1,860 to £3,550 per m² including VAT.
Can I walk on a flat roof extension?
Only for maintenance unless it is designed as a terrace. A roof terrace or balcony needs planning permission and a different structure.
Book a free site visit in Harlow
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.