Side extensions across Ipswich
A side extension in Ipswich 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 IpswichFrom £23,000 inc VAT
- PlanningSingle storey can be permitted development
- Build time10–18 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsIP1, IP2, IP3, IP4, IP5
Covering Ipswich
We cover Ipswich and the postcode districts IP1, IP2, IP3, IP4, IP5, IP8. We also work in nearby Woodbridge (10 miles), Felixstowe (11 miles), Stowmarket (11 miles), Sudbury (18 miles).
Harwich, in Essex, is roughly 10 miles from Ipswich 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 is included
- Structure, roof tied into the house
- New openings through the side wall
- Windows, doors and finishes to match
- Foundations near boundaries and any drains
How much does a side extension cost in Ipswich?
Labour and material costs vary across the UK, so for Ipswich we use our East of England factor (×1.06). The ranges include VAT and exclude design, structural and council fees.
Typical rates in Ipswich: £1,860 to £3,600 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 m × 5 m 12 m² | £23,000 – £28,000 | £26,000 – £34,000 | £33,000 – £43,500 |
| 3 m × 6 m 18 m² | £33,000 – £40,500 | £39,000 – £51,000 | £49,500 – £65,000 |
| 3 m × 8 m 24 m² | £44,500 – £53,500 | £52,000 – £67,500 | £66,000 – £86,500 |
For a figure based on your own dimensions, use our guide-price tool.
Planning rules that apply in Ipswich
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.
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).
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
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
You receive a written, itemised price and programme. Nothing starts until you are happy with it.
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 Ipswich
How long does a side extension take to build in Ipswich?
On site, typically 10 to 18 weeks once approvals are in place. Before that, allow 6–14 weeks design and approvals.
Will my neighbours in Ipswich 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 Ipswich?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
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.
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 Ipswich
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.