Single-storey rear extensions across Rayleigh
A single-storey extension in Rayleigh 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 RayleighFrom £22,000 inc VAT
- PlanningOften permitted development (3–4 m), or prior approval up to 6–8 m
- Build time10–16 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsSS5, SS6, SS7
Planning and approvals in Rayleigh
In England a single-storey rear extension can usually go up to 3 m beyond the original rear wall of a semi-detached or terraced house, or 4 m on a detached house, without a planning application, provided it is no more than 4 m high, keeps eaves to 3 m within 2 m of a boundary and, with other buildings, covers no more than half the land around the original house. The larger home extension prior approval scheme raises those depths to 6 m and 8 m, with neighbours notified and a 42-day decision.
Before any drawing is finalised we check whether the house is listed, in a conservation area or subject to an Article 4 direction.
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.
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).
Local to Rayleigh
Across SS5, SS6, SS7, we can visit, measure and advise. The same team covers Hadleigh (2 miles), Benfleet (3 miles), Wickford (4 miles), Canvey Island (5 miles), all within easy reach.
For homes towards Kent, Gillingham is around 14 miles away. 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.
How much does a single-storey extension cost in Rayleigh?
Labour and material costs vary across the UK, so for Rayleigh we use our East of England factor (×1.06). The ranges include VAT and exclude design, structural and council fees.
Typical rates in Rayleigh: £1,860 to £3,600 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 m × 4 m 12 m² | £22,000 – £26,500 | £26,000 – £33,500 | £33,000 – £43,500 |
| 4 m × 5 m 20 m² | £37,000 – £43,500 | £43,000 – £55,500 | £55,000 – £72,500 |
| 5 m × 6 m 30 m² | £55,500 – £65,500 | £65,000 – £83,000 | £82,500 – £108,500 |
Try the guide-price tool to see a range for your own size and finish.
What we take care of
- Planning route checked and the right approval obtained
- Measured survey and design
- Doors, windows, insulation, plastering and first fix to finish
- Foundations, drainage and groundworks
- Flat or pitched roof, rooflights or lantern
- Walls, steel beams and the new opening into the house
How the project works
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
Drawings are prepared and agreed with you, then submitted for the right planning route and building regulations approval.
Fixed written price
With the design and specification agreed, you get a fixed written price and a start date.
Build and sign-off
Work is carried out to the agreed programme, inspected by building control and signed off at the end.
Questions people ask about single-storey extensions
Will my neighbours in Rayleigh 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 single-storey extension take to build in Rayleigh?
On site, typically 10 to 16 weeks once approvals are in place. Before that, allow 4–12 weeks design and approvals.
Can I see a price before committing to anything?
Yes. The guide prices on this page are adjusted for Rayleigh, 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 deep can a single-storey rear extension be without planning permission?
In England, up to 3 m beyond the original rear wall on a semi-detached or terraced house and 4 m on a detached house, within height and boundary limits. Through the larger home extension prior approval scheme those depths rise to 6 m and 8 m. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland use their own rules, which we check for your address.
How much does a single-storey extension cost per square metre?
Our guide range is about £1,860 to £3,600 per m² including VAT, depending on specification. A standard-spec 4 m × 5 m room usually lands at £43,000 to £55,500 in Rayleigh, plus design and council fees.
Book a free site visit in Rayleigh
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.