Can you stay at home?
Most families do. The extension is built from the garden side, and the back wall is only opened once the new room is weathertight, so the disruption inside is concentrated in the final weeks.
Setting up a temporary kitchen
A kettle, microwave, fridge and a table in another room carry most households through. If the kitchen is being moved, plan for four to six weeks without a sink, or use a utility tap.
Dust, noise and security
Expect noise in working hours, especially during groundworks and the knock-through. Dust screens, floor protection and a single protected route through the house keep the rest of the home clean. The back of the house is secured with temporary doors or boarding when the wall comes out.
About this guide
Written by the Rear Extensions design team and checked against GOV.UK, Welsh and Scottish Government and Northern Ireland guidance in November 2026. It is general guidance, not legal advice; we confirm the rules for your house at the survey.