Timber frame extensions in Exeter: design, approvals and build
If you live in Exeter and want more space without moving, a timber frame extension is one of the most practical ways to get it. We handle the drawings, approvals and the build.
- Guide price in ExeterFrom £21,000 inc VAT
- PlanningOften permitted development (3–4 m), or prior approval up to 6–8 m
- Build time8–14 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsEX1, EX2, EX3, EX4, EX5
Included in a typical project
- Breathable wall build-up with insulation
- Frame design and structural calculations
- Fire and acoustic details where needed
- Foundations, often lighter than masonry
- Cladding, render or brick slip finish
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.
Extensions in and around Exeter
We cover Exeter and the postcode districts EX1, EX2, EX3, EX4, EX5, EX6. Nearby, we also take on projects in Exmouth (9 miles), Tiverton (12 miles), Newton Abbot (14 miles), Torquay (18 miles).
For homes towards Somerset, Taunton is around 27 miles away. South West homes range from terraced streets in the cities to stone cottages and bungalows in the countryside, and conservation areas are common in historic centres.
How much does a timber frame extension cost in Exeter?
Labour and material costs vary across the UK, so for Exeter we use our South West England factor (×1.02). The ranges include VAT and exclude design, structural and council fees.
Typical rates in Exeter: £1,780 to £3,470 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 m × 4 m 12 m² | £21,000 – £26,000 | £25,000 – £32,500 | £31,500 – £42,000 |
| 4 m × 5 m 20 m² | £35,500 – £43,000 | £41,500 – £54,500 | £53,000 – £69,500 |
| 5 m × 6 m 30 m² | £53,500 – £64,500 | £62,500 – £81,500 | £79,500 – £104,500 |
For a figure based on your own dimensions, use our guide-price tool.
Do I need planning permission in Exeter?
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.
In a conservation area, national park, National Landscape, the Broads or a World Heritage Site the permitted development limits are tighter (no side or two-storey extensions without an application). Listed homes need listed building consent, and if permitted development rights have been removed, any extension needs an application.
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.
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).
From first visit to completion
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
Our team builds the extension, keeps you updated weekly and finishes with building control sign-off.
Your questions about a timber frame extension in Exeter
Who do I contract with for a timber frame extension in Exeter?
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 Exeter 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 Exeter?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
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.
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 £1,780 to £3,470 per m² including VAT.
Book a free site visit in Exeter
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.