Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Planning a home extension? Let’s break down the costs so you can plan your dream space with confidence.
Table of contents
- Introduction: Let’s Talk House Extension Costs
- Typical Cost Ranges in London
- What You’re Really Paying For
- How Location Affects Cost
- Choosing Materials & Design: Standard, Mid-Range, or Luxury
- Examples & Case Studies
- Hidden Costs You Might Not Expect
- Budgeting Tips
- Is a House Extension Worth It?
- Next Steps: Choosing a Builder
- FAQs
- Ready to Transform Your Home in Ealing & West London?
Introduction: Let’s Talk House Extension Costs
So, you’re thinking about extending your home in Ealing, Chiswick, Richmond, or West London, but the big question keeps popping up: “How much is this actually going to cost me?”
We get it – house extensions are exciting, but costs can feel a bit like a mystery. That’s why at GLS Building Contractors Ltd, with 20+ years of experience, we’ve put together this guide. We’ll walk you through the numbers, what impacts costs, and how to budget smartly. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what it takes to turn your home into the space you’ve always wanted.
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy kitchen extension or a full-blown wrap-around transformation, we’ve got you covered.
Typical Cost Ranges in London
Let’s start with some ballpark figures. Keep in mind that costs vary based on the size, type, and style of your extension, plus where you live in West London.
| Extension Type | Average Size (m²) | Estimated Cost (£) |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Storey | 20 | £36,000 – £70,000 |
| Two-Storey | 30 | £60,000 – £120,000 |
| Wrap-Around | 50 | £100,000 – £200,000 |
| Loft Conversion | 20 | £25,000 – £45,000 |
Yep, West London isn’t cheap – but that’s why careful planning is key! Areas like Ealing, Chiswick, Richmond, Hammersmith, and Westminster often see higher rates than the UK average. Find more: UK construction cost per square metre data
Quick Tip: Always budget an extra 10–15% for surprises – trust us, every project has them.
What You’re Really Paying For
When you see a quote, it’s not just bricks and mortar. Here’s what goes into your extension:
- Foundations & Groundworks: Excavation, concrete bases, drainage.
- Structural Works: Walls, roofs, windows, doors, steel beams.
- Finishes & Fixtures: Plastering, painting, flooring, kitchens, bathrooms.
- Professional Fees: Architects, engineers, planning consultants.
- VAT & Contingencies: Always account for that extra 10–15%.
Knowing this helps you see why costs add up – and why a cheap quote isn’t always better. Read: guidance on professional fees for architects and engineers . Also, learn about Flat Roof Extension Cost .
How Location Affects Cost
Living in Ealing or Richmond comes with perks… and a slightly higher price tag for extensions. Here’s why:
- Labour rates are higher in West London.
- Delivering materials can cost a bit more depending on access.
- Local planning rules can affect timelines and design.
At GLS, we know the area inside out, so we handle these hurdles for you, keeping costs and stress under control. Check: London planning permission rules
Choosing Materials & Design: Standard, Mid-Range, or Luxury
Your finishes matter — they make a huge difference in cost:
- Standard: Functional kitchens/bathrooms, basic finishes.
- Mid-Range: Better materials, semi-custom cabinetry, upgraded flooring.
- Luxury: Designer fittings, high-end appliances, bespoke solutions.
We’ll help you pick a style that fits your budget without compromising on look or durability.
Examples & Case Studies
To give you a realistic idea:
| Extension Type | Size | Cost (£) | What It’s Good For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-Storey | 20 m² | £36k–£70k | Perfect for kitchen or small living room expansions. |
| Two-Storey | 30 m² | £60k–£120k | Great for extra bedrooms or office space. |
| Wrap-Around | 50 m² | £100k–£200k | Maximizes space with rear & side extensions. |
Every home is different, so we provide detailed, personalized quotes tailored to your property.
Hidden Costs You Might Not Expect
Extensions have a few sneaky expenses:
- Party Wall Agreements (if you share a wall with a neighbour).
- Planning permissions (some extensions require approval).
- Access issues for machinery or materials.
- Structural surprises — especially in older homes.
Heads up: These can add thousands to your bill if not planned for. Read: Party Wall Agreement guidance
Budgeting Tips
Want to avoid sticker shock?
- Set aside 10–15% extra for contingencies.
- Compare multiple quotes.
- Consider phased projects for large renovations.
- Get advice from experienced local builders like GLS.
Need a tailored quote? Check our House Extensions in Ealing & West London page.
Is a House Extension Worth It?
Absolutely! A well-planned extension:
- Boosts your property’s value.
- Creates the extra space you need without moving.
- Lets you design the home exactly how you want it.
Studies show that home extensions can significantly increase your property’s worth when done right.
Many homeowners in Ealing, Richmond, and Hammersmith find that extensions provide a much better ROI than relocating.
Next Steps: Choosing a Builder
Picking the right builder is as important as the extension itself. At GLS Building Contractors Ltd, we offer:
- Free consultation and site survey.
- Transparent, detailed quotes.
- Complete project management — from design to finishing touches.
Learn more on our House Extensions service page and start planning today. If you’re not sure where to start, check out this guide on how to choose a reliable builder in London — it covers what to look for, questions to ask, and red flags to avoid.
FAQs
Between £1,800 and £4,000 per m² in West London.
Often, yes. GLS handles the paperwork for you.
Small extensions: 6–8 weeks. Large two-storey: 4–6 months.
Definitely. Many homeowners do this to save time.
Yes – we fully insure all projects for quality and durability.
Absolutely! Every project is tailored to your lifestyle and budget.
Ready to Transform Your Home in Ealing & West London?
With 20+ years of experience, GLS Building Contractors Ltd delivers premium house extensions and renovations.
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