A working journal of UK extensions, renovations and self-builds. Real budgets, planning runs, party-wall headaches and the trade calls we'd make again, documented from the foundations up.
Do I need planning permission for an extension? Often no, thanks to permitted development. Here are the exact UK size limits, rules and exceptions.
Every entry is something we actually had to figure out, in the order it caught us out.
Do I need planning permission for an extension? Often no, thanks to permitted development. Here are the exact UK size limits, rules and exceptions.
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How to serve a party wall notice in the UK: the steps, a free template, exact notice periods and the timeline from service to award.
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Planning permission refused? What to do next: read the refusal reasons, fix and resubmit a revised scheme, or appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.
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Building regulations vs planning permission explained: what each covers, when you need one, both or neither, and how to apply in the UK.
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Get building control sign off for your extension: full plans vs building notice, inspection stages, and how to get the completion certificate.
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Single storey extension cost in 2026, explained per m2: what drives the price, what is included, and the fees most quotes leave out.
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Single storey vs two storey extension compared on cost, value, planning and disruption, so you can pick the right one for your UK home.
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A practical house extension guide UK homeowners can actually use: planning permission, building regs, party wall, real cost ranges and a realistic timeline.
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Free extension cost calculator UK: estimate single-storey, two-storey, side-return and wraparound build costs by floor area, spec and region.
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Free brick calculator for the UK: work out bricks, blocks, mortar bags and an indicative material cost for any wall from its size and skin type.
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Do I need a party wall notice? Answer a few questions about your works and get the notice type, notice period and a starter notice to adapt.
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