Side extensions across Barnstaple
A side extension in Barnstaple starts with the right design and the right approval route. We take care of both, then build it with our own project management.
- Guide price in BarnstapleFrom £22,000 inc VAT
- PlanningSingle storey can be permitted development
- Build time10–18 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsEX31, EX32
Who a side extension suits
- Homes needing a utility, study or ground-floor bedroom
- Houses where the rear garden is small
- Detached and semi-detached houses with side land
Extensions in and around Barnstaple
Our survey diary covers Barnstaple, including EX31, EX32. We also work in nearby Bideford (8 miles), Tiverton (28 miles), Exeter (34 miles), Newton Abbot (43 miles).
In the South West, local stone, render and brick vary from town to town, so matching materials is a big part of designing an extension that looks right.
Planning and approvals in Barnstaple
In England a single-storey side extension can be permitted development if it is no more than 4 m high and no wider than half the width of the original house. Two-storey side extensions, and any side extension on designated land such as a conservation area, need a householder planning application.
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 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.
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.
Applications are decided by the local planning authority (your district, borough or unitary council).
How much does a side extension cost in Barnstaple?
These guide figures apply our South West England adjustment (×1.02) to national rates. They include VAT at 20% and cover the build itself; design and council fees are listed separately.
Typical rates in Barnstaple: £1,780 to £3,470 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 m × 5 m 12 m² | £22,000 – £27,000 | £25,000 – £32,500 | £31,500 – £42,000 |
| 3 m × 6 m 18 m² | £32,000 – £39,000 | £37,500 – £49,000 | £47,500 – £62,500 |
| 3 m × 8 m 24 m² | £42,500 – £51,500 | £50,000 – £65,000 | £63,500 – £83,500 |
Want a range for your exact size? The guide-price tool takes about a minute.
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
We visit your Barnstaple home, measure up, talk through what you want and check the planning position.
Design and approvals
We draw the design, agree it with you and handle planning or permitted development checks and building regulations.
Fixed written price
We confirm the build price in writing, based on the approved drawings and the finishes you have chosen.
Build and sign-off
The build is managed from start to finish, inspected at each stage and signed off on completion.
Common questions in Barnstaple
How long does a side extension take to build in Barnstaple?
On site, typically 10 to 18 weeks once approvals are in place. Before that, allow 6–14 weeks design and approvals.
Do I need building regulations approval in Barnstaple?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
Can I see a price before committing to anything?
Yes. The guide prices on this page are adjusted for Barnstaple, and the guide-price tool gives a range for your own size. After the survey you get a written price before anything is agreed.
Can I build over my driveway?
Yes, if the foundations work and you keep any parking the council requires. Drains and services under drives are common, so we check before design.
How close to the boundary can I build?
It depends on height. In England, within 2 m of a boundary the eaves must not exceed 3 m under permitted development. Building on the boundary is possible but brings party wall and maintenance access issues we plan for.
Book a free site visit in Barnstaple
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.