Rickmansworth side extensions, designed and built
A side extension in Rickmansworth 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 RickmansworthFrom £23,000 inc VAT
- PlanningSingle storey can be permitted development
- Build time10–18 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsWD3
Will the council need to approve it?
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 Rickmansworth?
Labour and material costs vary across the UK, so for Rickmansworth we use our East of England factor (×1.06). The ranges include VAT and exclude design, structural and council fees.
Typical rates in Rickmansworth: £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.
Local to Rickmansworth
Across WD3, we can visit, measure and advise. Nearby, we also take on projects in Watford (4 miles), Bushey (5 miles), Hemel Hempstead (8 miles), Borehamwood (9 miles).
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.
Included in a typical project
- Foundations near boundaries and any drains
- Planning route checked or application made
- New openings through the side wall
- Survey, design and street-view drawings
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
Once the layout is agreed, we deal with the council: planning permission or written confirmation that none is needed, plus building control.
Fixed written price
The price is fixed in writing once the design is settled, with a clear programme and payment stages.
Build and sign-off
We build it with one project manager, book the building control inspections and hand over the completion certificate.
Side extension questions answered
Who do I contract with for a side extension in Rickmansworth?
Your contract is with S&K Property Investments and Improvement Ltd, which designs and manages the project and the build teams who carry it out.
Will my neighbours in Rickmansworth 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.
Can I see a price before committing to anything?
Yes. The guide prices on this page are adjusted for Rickmansworth, and the guide-price tool gives a range for your own size. After the survey you get a written price before anything is agreed.
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.
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 Rickmansworth
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.