Side extensions in Bristol
If you live in Bristol and want more space without moving, a side extension is one of the most practical ways to get it. We handle the drawings, approvals and the build.
- Guide priceFrom £22,000 inc VAT
- PlanningSingle storey can be permitted development
- Towns coveredWhole area
- Site visitFree, no obligation
Towns in Bristol
We cover the whole of Bristol.
What we take care of
- Foundations near boundaries and any drains
- Structure, roof tied into the house
- Planning route checked or application made
- Windows, doors and finishes to match
- New openings through the side wall
Working in Bristol
We cover the whole of Bristol. 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.
Do I need planning permission in Bristol?
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 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).
What should I budget for a side extension in Bristol?
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 Bristol: £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.
From first visit to completion
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
It starts with a visit to your house to measure, check access and talk through ideas and budget.
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
We confirm the build price in writing, based on the approved drawings and the finishes you have chosen.
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 Bristol
Do you cover all of Bristol?
Yes, across the whole of Bristol. Site visits are free and there is no obligation.
Will my neighbours in Bristol 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.
How long does a side extension take to build in Bristol?
On site, typically 10 to 18 weeks once approvals are in place. Before that, allow 6–14 weeks design and approvals.
How much does a side extension cost?
Our guide range is about £1,780 to £3,470 per m² including VAT, depending on specification, so a standard 18 m² single-storey side extension lands around £37,500 to £49,000 in Bristol.
Can I build a side extension without planning permission?
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 planning application.
Book a free site visit in Bristol
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.