Portland, Dorset
Semi-detached rear extension in Portland
For homes in Portland, a semi-detached rear extension is often the simplest way to gain space without moving. Single or two-storey extensions for semi-detached houses, with side access and one party wall. We take it from survey to completion certificate.
We cover Portland (DT5) as part of our Dorset work. Where a Portland semi already has a small lean-to at the back, we usually replace it rather than extend it.
Book a free site visit
Tell us about the house and we'll call to arrange a free, no-obligation visit.
How much does a semi-detached rear extension cost in Portland?
Guide prices for a semi-detached rear extension in Portland start from our South West England rate of £1,980–£3,220 per square metre, including VAT. South West prices run slightly above our West Midlands baseline; natural stone to match the house is the main variable.
| Size | Guide price inc VAT |
|---|---|
| 3 m wide × 4 m deep (12 m²) | £23,500–£38,500 |
| 4 m wide × 5 m deep (20 m²) | £39,500–£64,500 |
| 4 m wide × 6 m deep (24 m²) | £47,500–£77,500 |
These are guide ranges; the written quote after the survey is the figure that counts.
Do you need planning permission for a semi-detached rear extension in Portland?
Planning for a semi-detached rear extension in Portland follows the English householder rules.
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.
A two-storey rear extension can be permitted development in England only if it projects no more than 3 metres, stays at least 7 metres from the rear boundary, matches the existing roof pitch and has obscure-glazed upper side windows. In practice most double-storey rear extensions go through a householder planning application.
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.
Conservation areas, National Parks, National Landscapes and the Broads restrict permitted development, and listed buildings always need listed building consent. At the first visit we measure what is there now and tell you which route fits: permitted development, prior approval or a planning application.
What are homes in Portland like to extend?
Portland has Victorian terraces nearer the centre and post-war semis on the edges. Sloping gardens are frequent, which affects floor levels and steps down to the patio.
How a semi-detached rear extension in Portland comes together
Survey visit
We visit free of charge, measure up, check access, drainage and neighbours' extensions, and note what you want the room to do.
Options and costs
We draw layout options and price each one, so the budget shapes the design rather than surprising you later.
Approvals
Permitted development check, prior approval or planning application, then Building Regulations drawings and structural calculations, plus party wall notices where they apply.
Fixed price and build
A written price for the agreed design, a start date and a named contact through the build, ending with the building control completion certificate.
Semi-detached rear extensions near Portland
Close by, we work in Weymouth, about 3.3 miles away, and Dorchester, about 10.3 miles away.
- Semi-detached rear extension in Weymouth
- Semi-detached rear extension in Dorchester
- Semi-detached rear extension in Bridport
- Semi-detached rear extension in Swanage
- Semi-detached rear extension in Poole
Other work in Portland:
FAQ
Semi-detached rear extension questions in Portland
How much does a semi-detached rear extension cost in Portland?
As a guide, £1,980–£3,220 per square metre including VAT for a standard specification. For example, 3 m wide × 4 m deep (12 m²): about £23,500–£38,500 at that rate. Your written price follows the survey.
Can I get a price without a visit?
Our online guide-price tool gives a range in a couple of minutes. A written price needs a survey.
Can I match pebbledash or render?
Yes. Many semis are refinished with new render across the whole back elevation so old and new match.
Do I need planning permission for a rear extension in Portland?
Often not for a single-storey rear extension of up to 3 metres (4 metres on a detached house) under permitted development, or up to 6 or 8 metres with prior approval, unless the house is in a conservation area or its rights have been removed.
Do I need a party wall agreement?
In England, usually yes if the extension is on or near a shared boundary or the foundations are close to a neighbour's building. We serve the notices.
Will I need a structural engineer?
Yes for the beam over the new opening and usually the foundations; we arrange them and their calculations go to building control.