Side extensions for homes in Romford
A side extension in Romford 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 RomfordFrom £28,500 inc VAT
- PlanningSingle storey can be permitted development
- Build time10–18 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsRM1, RM2, RM5, RM7, RM11

When a side extension makes sense
- Houses where the rear garden is small
- Detached and semi-detached houses with side land
- Homes needing a utility, study or ground-floor bedroom
Councils often prefer side extensions to sit slightly back from the front of the house with a lower roof, so the original building still reads clearly. We design to those principles from the start to avoid redesigns.
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.
Applications are decided by the local planning authority (your district, borough or unitary council).
Local to Romford
Postcode districts we cover around Romford include RM1, RM2, RM5, RM7, RM11, RM12. Nearby, we also take on projects in Hornchurch (2 miles), Dagenham (2 miles), Becontree (3 miles), Ilford (5 miles).
In London, space is at a premium and gardens are often short, so side returns, wraparounds and carefully planned rear extensions tend to make the most of every metre.
Side extension prices in Romford
For Romford we adjust our national guide rates by ×1.3, the factor we use for London. Figures include VAT; your written quote after the survey replaces them.
Typical rates in Romford: £2,280 to £4,420 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 m × 5 m 12 m² | £28,500 – £34,500 | £31,500 – £41,500 | £40,500 – £53,500 |
| 3 m × 6 m 18 m² | £40,500 – £49,500 | £47,500 – £62,500 | £60,500 – £80,000 |
| 3 m × 8 m 24 m² | £54,500 – £66,000 | £63,500 – £83,000 | £81,000 – £106,500 |
Try the guide-price tool to see a range for your own size and finish.
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
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
Work is carried out to the agreed programme, inspected by building control and signed off at the end.
Common questions in Romford
Do you cover all of Romford?
Yes. We cover Romford and the surrounding parts of Greater London. Site visits are free and there is no obligation.
Do I need building regulations approval in Romford?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
How long does a side extension take to build in Romford?
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 £2,280 to £4,420 per m² including VAT, depending on specification, so a standard 18 m² single-storey side extension lands around £47,500 to £62,500 in Romford.
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 Romford
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.