Bungalow and upward extensions in Swindon

Covering Swindon

Our coverage around Swindon (SN1, SN25, SN26) also includes Calne, Wantage and Chippenham.

Homes in the South West

The South West mixes stone and render cottages, Victorian terraces in the larger towns and modern estates, and many historic centres are conservation areas where materials and roof shapes are closely controlled.

What goes into an upward extension?

The first question is whether the existing walls and foundations can carry the extra load, so we start with a structural survey. Then we design either a full first floor or a raised roof with dormers, handle planning or prior approval, and build the new storey while protecting the floor below.

Design and planning or prior approval application
Roof removal and temporary weather protection
New first-floor structure, walls and roof

How much should I budget for an upward extension?

Use these ranges to budget for bungalow and upward extensions; the survey turns them into a fixed price for the agreed specification.

Bungalow and upward extensions	Guide price incl. VAT
Chalet conversion with dormers (total)	£45,000 to £85,000
New first floor, standard specification	£2,200 to £2,800 per m²
New first floor, good specification	£2,800 to £3,300 per m²
New first floor, high specification	£3,300 to £3,800 per m²

What approvals does an upward extension need in England?

English projects need planning clearance from the local council, building regulations sign-off from building control, and party wall notices where the work is on or near a shared boundary. We prepare and manage all three.

In England, Class AA permitted development allows an extra storey on many detached and semi-detached houses built between July 1948 and October 2018, subject to a prior approval application covering design, neighbours’ amenity and other matters. Houses in conservation areas and other protected land need full planning permission, as do most chalet conversions with front dormers.

What should Swindon homeowners check first?

The house is exposed while the roof is off, so the sequence is planned tightly.
Neighbours’ light and privacy are the main planning tests.

How does the project run?

Send us the details. Give us a postcode, a rough idea of size and some photos, by phone, form or the guide price tool.
Free site visit. We measure up, look at access, drains and the structure, and talk through options and budget.
Price and paperwork. The design is priced line by line, and we submit the planning and building control applications.
Build and hand over. Our teams build to the programme, building control inspects, and you get the completion paperwork at the end.

Questions about an upward extension in Swindon

Can I add a first floor to my bungalow?

Often yes, if the walls and foundations can carry the load and planning allows. We check the structure first.

How long does it take?

About 12 to 24 weeks on site.

How do I get a price for bungalow and upward extensions in Swindon?

Use the guide price tool for a ballpark figure, then book a visit for a fixed written price for the agreed specification.

Also covering

Learn more about bungalow and upward extensions, or see every project we cover in Swindon.