SINGLE STOREY EXTENSIONS
The biggest impact per pound you can make
A bigger kitchen, a dining space that fits everyone, a garden room that gets used every day. The single storey extension is Nottingham’s favourite project for good reason.
What you can do with one storey
Most single storey extensions in Nottingham are rear extensions of 3 to 5 metres, turning a cramped kitchen and unused patio into one generous open-plan space. Side extensions squeeze value from the strip beside the house, and side-return infills do the same for terraces. Rooflights or a roof lantern transform how the space feels; they are the feature our customers say they would never give up.
Not sure whether one storey or two makes more sense for your budget? Our double storey extensions page covers the trade-offs honestly.
What it costs in Nottingham
| Typical cost (20m², standard spec) | £36,000 – £52,000 |
| Per square metre | £1,800 – £2,600 |
| Small extension (3m x 4m) | £22,000 – £32,000 |
| Time on site | 10 – 14 weeks |
Glazing is the biggest swing factor: bifolds and lanterns add £5,000 to £15,000. Full breakdowns in our Nottingham extension cost guide.
Planning permission: often not needed
Many single storey rear extensions fall under permitted development: up to 3 metres deep on a semi or terrace (4 metres detached), under 4 metres high, built in matching materials. Larger schemes up to 6 or 8 metres can qualify too via prior approval. We check your address and handle the drawings and paperwork either way.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need foundations underpinned or drains moved?
Sometimes. Building over or within 3 metres of a public sewer needs a build-over agreement with Severn Trent, and we check drainage runs at the survey stage so there are no surprises mid-build.
Will it make the rest of the house dark?
This is the most common design mistake. We plan rooflights and internal glazing from day one so the middle room keeps its light. It is much cheaper to design light in than to retrofit it.
How long does a single storey extension take?
Typically 10 to 14 weeks on site, plus design and any planning time beforehand. Weather-critical stages are early, so starts in spring and summer run smoothest.
Ready to open up the back of your house?
Free site visits across Nottingham. Honest numbers before you commit to anything.