Timber frame extensions for homes in Cheshire
A timber frame extension in Cheshire starts with the right design and the right approval route. We take care of both, then build it with our own project management.
- Guide priceFrom £19,500 inc VAT
- PlanningOften permitted development (3–4 m), or prior approval up to 6–8 m
- Towns covered11
- Site visitFree, no obligation

Towns in Cheshire
Planning and approvals in Cheshire
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 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 Cheshire
Towns we cover in Cheshire include Warrington, Chester, Crewe, Ellesmere Port, Widnes, Runcorn, Macclesfield, Northwich. Across the North West, terraced houses with small rear yards suit compact rear and side return extensions, while suburban semis have room for more.
Included in a typical project
- Cladding, render or brick slip finish
- Foundations, often lighter than masonry
- Breathable wall build-up with insulation
- Frame design and structural calculations
- Fire and acoustic details where needed
Moisture is the enemy of any timber building. We design ventilated cladding cavities, breather membranes and a proper damp-proof course height, and keep the frame dry during construction.
What should I budget for a timber frame extension in Cheshire?
Labour and material costs vary across the UK, so for Cheshire we use our North West England factor (×0.95). The ranges include VAT and exclude design, structural and council fees.
Typical rates in Cheshire: £1,660 to £3,230 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 m × 4 m 12 m² | £19,500 – £24,000 | £23,000 – £30,500 | £29,500 – £39,000 |
| 4 m × 5 m 20 m² | £33,000 – £40,000 | £38,500 – £50,500 | £49,000 – £65,000 |
| 5 m × 6 m 30 m² | £49,500 – £60,000 | £58,000 – £76,000 | £74,000 – £97,000 |
Want a range for your exact size? The guide-price tool takes about a minute.
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
First, a site visit: we look at the house, garden, access and drains and listen to what you need.
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
Our team builds the extension, keeps you updated weekly and finishes with building control sign-off.
Timber frame extension questions answered
Will my neighbours in Cheshire 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 Cheshire?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
Who do I contract with for a timber frame extension in Cheshire?
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.
Is timber frame cheaper than brick?
It is similar overall. The frame can save time on site, but the cladding choice has a big effect on cost. Our guide range is about £1,660 to £3,230 per m² including VAT.
Does a timber frame extension need planning permission?
The same planning rules apply as for any extension. If the cladding looks different from the house, permitted development’s matching-materials condition may mean an application is needed.
Book a free site visit in Cheshire
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.