HOUSE EXTENSION

Maximise your home's potential with the CIAT (Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists) affiliate practice, AMS SURVEYS. Innovative, inspiring property planning backed by the expertise you need to get it right. Collaborate with our teams in Manchester, Liverpool, Cheshire and across the North today!

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OUR GLOWING CLIENT REVIEWS

BUILDING REGULATIONS FOR HOUSE EXTENSIONS

If you're planning a house extension, it's vital to understand that every project in England and Wales — regardless of size, location or style — must meet building regulations enforced by your local authority. These rules ensure that your extension is structurally sound, energy efficient, safe to use, and built with suitable materials.

At AMS Surveys, we don’t just support design — we help ensure full compliance. Our house extension surveys identify potential risks early and ensure that all necessary standards are met before work begins.

Structural Integrity

Every successful extension starts with a robust foundation. Our surveys assess the structural stability of both the existing property and the proposed extension. Designs must withstand applied loads without compromising the safety of your current home — something we prioritise in every project.

Thermal Insulation

Building regulations also demand strong energy performance. Through our surveys and planning support, we help demonstrate how your extension will meet insulation requirements, retaining heat efficiently and reducing long-term energy costs.

Safety and Fire Protection

Safety provisions are broad and include:

Safe access and entry points
Electrical safety checks
Proper ventilation and use of non-hazardous materials
Escape routes and fire-resistant materials in line with the latest fire safety regulations

Our house extension surveys review these aspects in detail to ensure your design passes building control checks without delay.

Walkway Corridor Modern Architecture Abstract

Planning Permission for a House Extension

Whether or not you need planning permission for your house extension depends on the scale, design, and location of the project — and the specific rules set by your local council.

At AMS Surveys, we help homeowners navigate these rules with ease. Our house extension surveys often include a review of planning permission requirements to ensure your project can move forward without delay.

Permitted Development Rights

Some extensions fall under ‘Permitted Development’ and won’t require a formal application. These typically include:

Single-storey extensions
Orangery extensions
Garden rooms

To qualify, the extension must meet conditions set out in the General Permitted Development Order (2015), including size limits and matching materials with the existing property.

When Planning Permission is Required

More ambitious projects — such as double-storey extensions — usually require planning permission. If your design exceeds the limits of Permitted Development, or substantially alters the structure of your home, a formal application will likely be necessary.

Location-Based Restrictions

Permitted Development rights may not apply in:

Conservation areas
Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Projects involving listed buildings
Barn conversions

In these cases, planning rules are more stringent. Our experienced team will assess your property and help determine whether a planning application is required as part of your house extension survey process.

PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS FOR AN EXTENSION

There are several elements that need careful thought and consideration when planning a house extension.

Firstly, think about the purpose for which the extension is being built. A single-storey extension can function as a welcoming living space, a modern kitchen, or a sophisticated home office. Likewise, a double-storey rear extension can add additional bedrooms, bathrooms, or a spacious play area. Orangeries and garden room extensions, on the other hand, can offer a serene retreat, blurring the lines between the indoors and outdoors.

Another essential element to consider is the style and design of the extension. It needs to harmonise with the rest of the property. Our architectural designers meticulously plan to ensure that the extension seamlessly blends with the existing structure, enhancing its aesthetic value and functionality.

Next, the budget needs to be factored in. As a responsible extension planner, we provide transparent costings, taking into account the preliminary build cost. We aim for a budget-friendly architectural solution that meets the client’s requirements and aspirations without compromising on quality or design.