Timber frame extensions for homes in Southampton
If you live in Southampton 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 SouthamptonFrom £23,500 inc VAT
- PlanningOften permitted development (3–4 m), or prior approval up to 6–8 m
- Build time8–14 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsSO14, SO15, SO16, SO17, SO18
Planning rules that apply in Southampton
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.
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 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.
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).
When a timber frame extension makes sense
- Contemporary designs with timber or board cladding
- Sites where weight or speed matters
- Homeowners who want strong energy performance
Working in Southampton
Across SO14, SO15, SO16, SO17, SO18, SO19, we can visit, measure and advise. Neighbouring towns we cover include Hythe (3 miles), Totton (4 miles), Eastleigh (5 miles), Fareham (10 miles).
For homes towards Isle of Wight, Cowes is around 11 miles away. Homes across the South East range from Victorian terraces in the older town centres to large detached houses on the edges, so the right extension type varies street by street.
Timber frame extension prices in Southampton
Labour and material costs vary across the UK, so for Southampton we use our South East England factor (×1.12). The ranges include VAT and exclude design, structural and council fees.
Typical rates in Southampton: £1,960 to £3,810 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 m × 4 m 12 m² | £23,500 – £28,500 | £27,500 – £36,000 | £34,500 – £46,000 |
| 4 m × 5 m 20 m² | £39,000 – £47,500 | £45,500 – £59,500 | £58,000 – £76,500 |
| 5 m × 6 m 30 m² | £58,500 – £71,000 | £68,500 – £89,500 | £87,000 – £114,500 |
Try the guide-price tool to see a range for your own size and finish.
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
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
You receive a written, itemised price and programme. Nothing starts until you are happy with it.
Build and sign-off
We build it with one project manager, book the building control inspections and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions people ask about timber frame extensions
Will my neighbours in Southampton 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 timber frame extension take to build in Southampton?
On site, typically 8 to 14 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 Southampton, and the guide-price tool gives a range for your own size. After the survey you get a written price before anything is agreed.
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 £1,960 to £3,810 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 Southampton
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.