Timber frame extensions for homes in Swanage
A timber frame extension in Swanage 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 SwanageFrom £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 districtsBH19
What should I budget for a timber frame extension in Swanage?
For Swanage we adjust our national guide rates by ×1.02, the factor we use for South West England. Figures include VAT; your written quote after the survey replaces them.
Typical rates in Swanage: £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.
Included in a typical project
- Frame design and structural calculations
- Cladding, render or brick slip finish
- Foundations, often lighter than masonry
- Breathable wall build-up with insulation
- 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.
Will the council need to approve it?
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.
The planning position for a specific Swanage address depends on its history and any designations, which is why we check it at the first visit.
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).
Covering Swanage
Our survey diary covers Swanage, including BH19. Nearby, we also take on projects in Poole (7 miles), Bournemouth (9 miles), Christchurch (12 miles), Ferndown (14 miles).
New Milton, in Hampshire, is roughly 17 miles from Swanage and also on our list. 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.
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 draw the design, agree it with you and handle planning or permitted development checks and building regulations.
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.
Common questions in Swanage
How long does a timber frame extension take to build in Swanage?
On site, typically 8 to 14 weeks once approvals are in place. Before that, allow 4–12 weeks design and approvals.
Do I need building regulations approval in Swanage?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
Can I see a price before committing to anything?
Yes. The guide prices on this page are adjusted for Swanage, 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 £1,780 to £3,470 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 Swanage
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.