Guides to building work on your home
Costs, planning, building regulations and the practical questions homeowners ask before starting a project.
How much does an extension cost in 2026?
Guide costs for single-storey, two-storey, side return and wraparound extensions in 2026, per square metre including VAT, with what drives the price.
How much does a loft conversion cost in 2026?
2026 guide prices for rooflight, dormer, hip-to-gable and mansard loft conversions including VAT, plus what affects the cost.
Do I need planning permission for an extension?
When an extension is permitted development in England, when it needs prior approval or a planning application, and how the rules differ in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Can I convert my loft without planning permission?
The permitted development rules for loft conversions and dormers in England explained, including volume limits, and when you need planning permission.
Do I need a party wall agreement?
When the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies to extensions and loft conversions in England and Wales, the notice periods, and how surveyors are appointed.
What building regulations apply to an extension?
Which parts of the building regulations an extension or loft conversion must meet, who inspects the work, and what certificate you receive at the end.
Dormer, hip-to-gable or mansard: which loft conversion?
How to choose between a rooflight, dormer, hip-to-gable and mansard loft conversion, with honest pros, cons and costs.
Is a garage conversion worth it?
What a garage conversion involves, what it costs in 2026, when you need planning permission or building regulations, and the common pitfalls.
How long does an extension take?
Realistic timescales for designing, approving and building an extension or loft conversion, stage by stage.
Should I extend, renovate or knock down and rebuild?
How to decide between extending and renovating an existing house or demolishing and building new, including the VAT difference.
How is building work approved in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?
The key differences in planning, building regulations and party wall rules for extensions and lofts in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland compared with England.
How do I compare quotes from builders?
A checklist for comparing building quotes for extensions and lofts fairly, so you can see what is included and what is not.
What VAT rate applies to building work on my home?
When building work on a home is charged at 20%, 5% or 0% VAT, including extensions, renovations of empty homes, conversions and new builds.