County Durham
Rear extensions for detached houses in County Durham
Wider, deeper rear extensions with room for vaulted roofs and big glazing. We design and build rear extensions across County Durham, from Darlington and Hartlepool to Stockton-on-Tees, covering single-storey kitchen extensions, two-storey additions, side returns and wraparounds.
Detached houses in County Durham often have room for a deeper rear extension under England's prior approval route or a full-width design. Terraces and semis are typical around County Durham. On terraces a single-storey rear extension across the back yard is usually the practical choice; semis often have room for more.
How much does a detached house rear extension cost in County Durham?
A detached house rear extension in County Durham is priced at £1,760–£2,880 per square metre including VAT as a guide, before kitchen fit-out and fees. North East prices are among the lowest in our range; former mining ground is the main foundation variable.
| Size | Guide price inc VAT |
|---|---|
| 4 m wide × 6 m deep (24 m²) | £42,000–£69,000 |
| 5 m wide × 8 m deep (40 m²) | £70,000–£115,000 |
These are guide ranges; the written quote after the survey is the figure that counts.
Do you need planning permission in County Durham?
In England a single-storey rear extension can often be built under permitted development: up to 3 metres beyond the original rear wall of an attached house, or 4 metres on a detached house, no higher than 4 metres, with eaves no higher than 3 metres if any part is within 2 metres of a boundary.
If 3 or 4 metres is not enough, England's prior approval route allows 6 metres on a terraced or semi-detached house and 8 metres on a detached house for a single-storey rear extension. Neighbours are consulted, the council decides within 42 days, and the fee is £249, rising to £310 from 8 December 2026.
England's rules allow a rear extension of more than one storey without an application only when it is no deeper than 3 metres and at least 7 metres from the boundary opposite the rear wall, and never on designated land. Most two-storey schemes need householder planning permission.
Conservation areas, National Parks, National Landscapes and the Broads restrict permitted development, and listed buildings always need listed building consent.
Where in County Durham do we work?
FAQ
Questions people ask
How deep can I extend a detached house?
4 metres under permitted development in England, or 8 metres with prior approval, outside designated land.
Can I have a vaulted ceiling?
Yes, with a pitched roof and exposed or boxed rafters, subject to the height limits.
Is an oak frame worth it?
It is a premium finish with a long life; it costs more than blockwork with a plain roof.
Do you cover all of County Durham?
We cover 16 towns and districts in County Durham, including Darlington, Hartlepool and Stockton-on-Tees.
Who builds the extension?
Vetted building teams working under contract to us; your contract is with S&K Property Investments and Improvement Ltd.