How Much Does an Extension Actually Cost in 2023?

Do you need more living space but have no idea how much the final bill will be?

There is so much conflicting information around, builders quotes can vary drastically, so where can you find actual up-to-date facts and figures of what the building cost will be for your new extension? 

The simple answer is to work with a builder that provides an *open book policy. This is the only way you will be provided with each and every accurate cost BEFORE you begin a building project. 

* Open book policy provides you with the actual material & labour cost on that day. You are provided with a full set of accounts showing the estimated cost and actual cost of each item used for your build. Some items will increase in cost, some will be less expensive. This is the most transparent way to obtain accurate costs and enables you to keep a close eye on the budget. 

Some builders quote for the basic build only, the bare shell. Most will not include kitchens or utility rooms and will allocate a small budget cost for a basic bathroom, so what are you actually getting for your money? 

Like all human beings, properties vary in shape and size, materials and textures, so do extensions. There is no magic formula to cover everything. If you live in a conservation area you may have to install traditional sliding sash windows or use slate tiles on your roof, these are a lot more expensive materials to buy than uPVC windows or concrete tiles. There is also the time element of fitting these items. 

So you need a budget, how do you get to one? 

We recently spoke to our QS and building surveyors. The actual cost of building a straight forward box type extension in the UK will start around £2,500 per sq mtr plus VAT for the build only but what if you want a kitchen, utility room or bathroom? We have provided a quick guide for a kitchen extension in 2023 below.

Each project is unique so prices may vary.