21 Expert Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about your building project? Here are expert answers to the most common questions about extensions, loft conversions, costs, planning permission, and more.
Costs & Pricing
Is 50k enough for an extension?
Yes, £50,000 is a realistic budget for a single-storey rear extension in Hertfordshire and London. Costs vary depending on size, specification, and location. A standard 4m x 5m single-storey extension typically ranges from £35,000 to £60,000. For larger or double-storey extensions, budgets of £60,000 to £120,000 are more typical. We provide free, detailed quotes so you know exactly what your project will cost.
Can you do an extension for 30k?
A budget of £30,000 can cover a smaller single-storey extension (approximately 3m x 4m) with a standard specification. This would include foundations, walls, roof, windows, and basic internal finishing. More complex designs, premium materials, or larger footprints would require a higher budget. We always discuss your budget upfront and work with you to maximise value.
What is the average cost of a loft conversion in the UK?
The average loft conversion in the UK costs between £35,000 and £65,000, depending on the type. A Velux (roof light) conversion is the most affordable at £30,000–£40,000, while dormer conversions range from £40,000–£55,000. Hip-to-gable and mansard conversions are more complex and typically cost £50,000–£70,000. These prices include structural work, insulation, electrics, plumbing, plastering, and finishing.
Can you do a loft conversion for 20k?
A full loft conversion for £20,000 would be very challenging at current UK prices. The most basic Velux conversion typically starts around £30,000. However, if you already have a room-in-roof structure or need minimal structural work, costs may be lower. We offer free assessments to give you an accurate figure for your specific loft.
How much does it cost to renovate a kitchen in the UK?
Kitchen renovation costs in the UK range widely. A budget kitchen refresh (new doors, worktops, appliances) costs £5,000–£10,000. A mid-range full kitchen installation runs £10,000–£20,000, while a premium kitchen with bespoke cabinetry and high-end appliances can cost £20,000–£40,000+. We work with all budgets and can supply or fit your chosen kitchen.
How much does it cost to fit a bathroom in the UK?
A basic bathroom installation costs £3,000–£6,000, a mid-range bathroom with quality fixtures runs £6,000–£10,000, and a high-end bathroom or wet room conversion can cost £10,000–£18,000. Costs depend on the size of the room, quality of fittings, and whether structural or plumbing changes are needed. We handle everything from plumbing to tiling.
How much does it cost to convert a garage in the UK?
Garage conversions in the UK typically cost £10,000–£25,000, making them one of the most cost-effective ways to add living space. A basic conversion (insulation, flooring, electrics, plastering) starts around £10,000, while a higher-spec conversion with en-suite, underfloor heating, or bi-fold doors can reach £20,000–£25,000.
Planning Permission
Do you need planning permission to convert a loft in the UK?
Most loft conversions fall under Permitted Development rights and don't need planning permission, provided certain conditions are met: the volume added must not exceed 40 cubic metres (terraced houses) or 50 cubic metres (detached/semi-detached), materials must be similar in appearance, and no extension can be higher than the existing roof. However, if your home is in a conservation area, is a listed building, or has already been extended, you may need permission. We handle all planning applications and can advise on your specific situation.
Do you need planning permission for a garage conversion UK?
Most garage conversions don't require planning permission as they fall under Permitted Development. Since you're converting existing space rather than extending, it's generally straightforward. However, you will need Building Regulations approval to ensure the conversion meets standards for structural integrity, insulation, ventilation, fire safety, and damp proofing. Some conditions apply — for example, if the conversion changes the use of the building or if your property has specific planning conditions.
Do I need permission to put up a fence UK?
You generally don't need planning permission for fences up to 2 metres high (or 1 metre if adjacent to a highway). However, there are exceptions: properties in conservation areas, listed buildings, or homes with specific planning conditions may have restrictions. If you're replacing an existing fence with one of similar height and style, permission is rarely needed. For boundary disputes, we recommend checking your title deeds and speaking with your neighbour before work begins.
Process & Timelines
What is the correct order to renovate a house?
A full house renovation should follow this order: 1) Structural work (walls, roof, foundations), 2) First fix — plumbing, electrical, and heating rough-in, 3) Insulation and plastering, 4) Second fix — sockets, switches, radiators, bathroom fittings, 5) Kitchen and bathroom installation, 6) Flooring, 7) Painting and decorating, 8) Final finishing and snagging. This order prevents rework and ensures each trade can work efficiently. We project-manage the entire process so you don't need to coordinate trades yourself.
What is the most expensive thing when renovating a house?
Structural changes (removing walls, underpinning, new foundations) are typically the most expensive part of a renovation. After that, kitchens and bathrooms tend to be the highest-cost rooms due to plumbing, electrics, and fixtures. Other significant costs include roofing, rewiring, and re-plumbing. To manage costs, we recommend prioritising structural and essential work first, then upgrading finishes within your remaining budget.
What is the 10 year rule for loft conversion?
The '10 year rule' refers to Section 171B of the Town and Country Planning Act. If a loft conversion (or any development) has been completed for more than 4 years without enforcement action, it becomes immune from enforcement — even if it was done without planning permission. For changes of use, the period is 10 years. However, this doesn't mean you should build without permission. Lack of proper approvals can cause serious problems when selling your property. We always ensure full compliance.
Which lofts cannot be converted?
Some lofts are difficult or impossible to convert: those with a head height below 2.2 metres at the highest point, lofts with complex roof structures (some trussed roofs require extensive modification), properties where the roof pitch is too shallow, and buildings where structural constraints prevent adequate support. Listed buildings and some flats also face restrictions. We offer free loft assessments to determine feasibility before you commit.
How long does a loft conversion take?
A typical loft conversion takes 6–10 weeks depending on the type. Velux conversions are the quickest at around 6 weeks, dormer conversions take 7–8 weeks, and hip-to-gable or mansard conversions can take 8–10 weeks. This timeline covers structural work, insulation, first and second fix, plastering, and finishing. Weather can sometimes affect external work timescales.
How long does a house extension take?
A single-storey extension typically takes 10–14 weeks from breaking ground to completion. Double-storey extensions take 14–20 weeks. These timescales include foundations, structural build, roofing, first fix (plumbing and electrics), plastering, second fix, and finishing. Planning permission (if required) adds 8–12 weeks before work begins. We provide a detailed programme with your quote.
Technical Questions
Can any electrician install an EV charger in the UK?
No, EV charger installation must be carried out by an electrician registered with a government-approved scheme such as NICEIC, NAPIT, or ELECSA. The installer must also comply with the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) and Part P of the Building Regulations. Our electricians are NICEIC certified and experienced in EV charger installations for all major brands including Tesla, Pod Point, and Ohme.
What is the downside of underfloor heating?
The main downsides of underfloor heating are: higher installation costs compared to radiators (especially for retrofit), slower heat-up times (it takes longer to warm a room from cold), potential difficulty accessing pipes for repairs, and floor height increases of 15–50mm depending on the system. However, underfloor heating provides more even heat distribution, frees up wall space, works efficiently with heat pumps, and reduces dust circulation. We install both wet and electric systems.
Do you have to dig up the floor for underfloor heating?
Not necessarily. For new builds and extensions, wet underfloor heating is installed before the screed is laid. For existing homes, low-profile electric mat systems can be installed on top of the existing floor with minimal disruption (adding only 3–6mm in height). Retrofit wet systems require more work but can be installed using low-profile panels that sit on the existing floor. The best option depends on your floor construction and heating requirements.
Are your electricians and plumbers fully qualified?
Yes. Our electricians are NICEIC certified and our plumbers are Gas Safe registered. All work is carried out to current British Standards and Building Regulations. We provide all necessary certificates on completion, including electrical installation certificates (BS 7671) and Gas Safety certificates. These certifications are essential for insurance, mortgage, and resale purposes.
Do you offer guarantees on your work?
Yes, all our work comes with a workmanship guarantee. The guarantee period varies by service — structural work and extensions carry longer guarantees than smaller maintenance jobs. Specific products (roofing membranes, boilers, windows) carry separate manufacturer warranties. Full guarantee details are included in your written quotation before any work begins.
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