Single-storey extensions in Sandwell

What should you know before starting in Sandwell?

Planning applications and lawful development certificates for Sandwell go to Sandwell Council. Many single-storey extensions fall under permitted development, but not every house keeps those rights — conditions on newer estates, conservation areas and Article 4 directions can remove them. The structural work also needs Building Regulations approval, through the council's building control team or a registered building control approver.

Most of the build happens outside, so the kitchen is usually only out of action for one to three weeks near the end.
Under permitted development, a rear extension on a semi or terrace can usually project 3 metres from the original back wall, or 6 metres through the prior approval route.
Detached houses get a little more room: 4 metres as standard, or up to 8 metres with prior approval.

Postcode district: All Sandwell postcodes
Planning and building control: Sandwell Council
From our West Bromwich base: About 1 mile to the centre

Which options suit homes in Sandwell?

Flat roof or pitched roof

Flat roofs, usually GRP fibreglass or EPDM rubber, keep the height down near boundaries and suit roof lanterns. Pitched or lean-to roofs with tiles to match the house look more traditional and shed rain faster, but need more height. The choice affects permitted development limits, cost, and how much light reaches the existing rooms.

Wrap-around extension

Combines a side and rear extension into an L shape, giving the largest ground-floor gain. Because it extends both sideways and rearwards, a wrap-around normally needs a householder planning application rather than relying on permitted development. Expect more steelwork and a more involved roof where the two sections meet.

What does your single-storey extension cost in Sandwell?

Prices in Sandwell match the rest of our area: £28,000–£90,000 depending on size and specification. A 4 m × 5 m rear extension on a semi, with roof lights and bifold doors: usually £40,000–£52,000.

Guide prices for single-storey extensions
Option	Guide price	Good to know
Small rear or side extension (10–15 m²)	£28,000 – £40,000	Utility, WC or a modest kitchen extension
Rear kitchen-diner extension (18–25 m²)	£38,000 – £58,000	The glazing spec moves it within the range
Wrap-around or large extension (30 m²+)	£58,000 – £90,000	More steel and roof, and normally a planning application

Guide ranges include VAT where it applies. Access, parking and the state of what's there now can move the price — the survey settles it.

Questions about single-storey extensions in Sandwell

How much does a single-storey extension cost in the West Midlands?

Most single-storey extensions in the West Midlands cost between £28,000 and £90,000, including VAT where it applies. A typical 4 m × 5 m rear kitchen-diner on a semi, with roof lights and bifold doors, usually costs £40,000–£52,000 built to a finish ready for decorating. Kitchen units, flooring and decorating are extra. After the free survey you get a fixed price for the agreed specification.

Do you cover the whole of Sandwell?

Yes — we cover Sandwell from our West Bromwich base, including Dudley, Walsall and Wolverhampton. Call 0800 088 6248 or send the form on this page to book a free survey.

Do I need to tell my neighbours about an extension?

You don't need their permission for permitted development, but you will usually need to involve them. Under the prior approval route the council writes to adjoining neighbours and gives them 21 days to comment. If the build is on the boundary or the foundations are deep and close to their house, the Party Wall Act requires formal written notice. A friendly conversation before any notice arrives usually makes everything smoother.

Who approves single-storey extensions in Sandwell?

Usually building control, and sometimes planning. Sandwell Council is the planning authority for Sandwell; Building Regulations approval comes from its building control team or a registered building control approver. We'll tell you which applies after the survey.

Single-storey extensions across Sandwell

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Single-storey extensions near Sandwell

Other home improvements in Sandwell

Book a free survey in Sandwell and we'll measure up, check the drains and boundaries, and give you a written, itemised quote.