Why Build a Home Extension?
More homeowners across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire are choosing to expand their properties rather than face the expense and hassle of moving. With rising house prices, high stamp duty costs, and limited availability of suitable homes on the market, extending your current property has become a smarter, more practical solution.
Instead of compromising on location, schools, commute times, or community ties, many families are opting to invest in their current home and reshape it to suit their evolving needs. Whether it’s creating a modern kitchen-diner that brings everyone together, adding a new bedroom for a growing family, or building a quiet workspace away from the main living areas, extensions give you the flexibility to design your space around your life not the other way around.
A well-planned extension can significantly increase both usable space and property value. According to industry reports, a quality rear or side extension can boost a home’s market price by up to 20%. And unlike loft conversions or internal remodelling, building a home extension gives you full control over layout, access, and style whether that’s sleek and contemporary or a seamless match with your existing architecture.
For homeowners thinking long term whether that’s accommodating elderly relatives, planning for children’s future needs, or simply future-proofing the property a home extension is a powerful investment. And with expert builders like The Nottinghamshire Building Company, the process is far more straightforward than many imagine.
How Much Does a Home Extension Cost?
When building a home extension, one of the first questions most homeowners ask is: how much is it going to cost? The answer isn’t always straightforward — because every home, every extension, and every family’s needs are different. However, understanding the key cost factors can help you plan more accurately and avoid unwelcome surprises.
Key Factors That Influence Extension Costs:
- Size and footprint – A larger extension naturally costs more, but economies of scale often mean a lower cost per square metre on two-storey builds.
- Complexity – Open-plan spaces with steel supports or vaulted ceilings cost more than basic room additions with standard layouts.
- Structural work – The need to move drains, strengthen foundations, or alter existing walls will increase costs.
- Finishes and fixtures – High-spec kitchens, bespoke glazing, underfloor heating, or premium flooring can raise the budget significantly.
- Access and site conditions – Limited access for machinery, sloping sites, or tight urban locations can increase labour and time.
- Location – Prices may vary slightly across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, depending on demand, materials, and proximity to suppliers.
General Cost Guide for 2025 (Nottinghamshire & Derbyshire):
The total cost of a home extension depends on several variables:
Extension Type
Typical Cost per m²
Basic Single-Storey
£1,800 – £2,400
Mid-Range Single-Storey
£2,400 – £2,800
Two-Storey Extension
£2,200 – £3,200
High-Spec Kitchen Extension
£3,000 – £3,500+
So, for example, a 20m² single-storey kitchen-diner extension with standard fittings might cost around £48,000 to £56,000, while a two-storey side extension of the same footprint could start around £60,000, depending on internal layout and finishes.
TNBC Tip: Always allocate a 10–15% contingency budget to cover unexpected costs such as hidden pipework, updated insulation needs, or minor design tweaks.
What’s Included in the Cost?
When comparing quotes, make sure you know what’s covered. A full-service building company like The Nottinghamshire Building Company provides:
- Groundworks and foundations
- All brickwork, structural steel, and roofing
- First and second fix plumbing and electrics
- Plastering, joinery, and finishing
- Help with planning and building regulations
- Project management and timeline tracking
Some builders may quote a lower base price but exclude key elements like kitchens, flooring, or waste removal - which can result in higher total costs in the long run.
Key Considerations Before Building a Home Extension
Before you break ground, consider the following:
Design & Layout
How will the new space flow with the rest of your home? A badly planned extension can feel disconnected. Consider open-plan living, light levels, sightlines to the garden, and how rooms will be used day-to-day.
Site Access & Disruption
Will machinery and materials access your garden easily? If your home backs onto another property, deliveries and scaffold access might require agreements.
Light & Orientation
A north-facing extension may require larger windows or roof lights, while a south-facing one may need solar control glass to avoid overheating.
Neighbours
Boundary lines, shared walls, and potential objections should all be handled early — especially if your build affects privacy or sunlight.
Services & Utilities
You may need to relocate drains or boiler flues, and consider future-proofing by upgrading electrics, internet cabling, or plumbing.
