House Extensions in South West Devon

If you’re running out of space but love your home, a well-planned extension could be the perfect solution. Whether it’s a rear kitchen extension, a two-storey side build, or a garage conversion, extending your home is a smart way to gain space and increase value—without the stress of moving.

At Edleigh Construction, we help homeowners across Newton Abbot, Torquay, Totnes and beyond bring their extension plans to life. In this guide, we answer the most frequently searched questions about house extensions in South West Devon—helping you make confident, informed decisions.

What Types of Extensions Can I Build?

The best extension for your home depends on space, budget, planning constraints, and how you want to use the new area. Common types include:

Rear Extension: Built at the back of the home – popular for kitchen-diners and open-plan living.
Side Extension: Uses dead space along the side return – great for narrow plots or expanding kitchens.
Wraparound Extension: Combines rear and side – offers maximum downstairs space.
Double-Storey Extension: Adds two floors – ideal for extra bedrooms or expanding large homes.
Garage Conversion: Transforms your existing garage – useful for home offices, gyms, or playrooms.

We’ll advise you on what’s structurally feasible—and what will add the most long-term value.

Do I Need Planning Permission for an Extension?

You might—but not always. Many extensions fall under Permitted Development, especially if:

The extension is less than 6m (or 8m for detached homes)
It doesn’t exceed 4m in height
It’s not forward of the principal elevation
It doesn’t take up more than 50% of your garden space

However, if your home is in a conservation area, AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), or is listed, full planning permission will be required.

While we don’t handle planning applications in-house, we work closely with experienced architects who can support you through the design and planning process. We’re happy to introduce you to trusted professionals we’ve successfully partnered with on many projects.

Once the plans are approved, our team takes over—and we manage all Building Control compliance directly, ensuring everything meets regulation from groundworks to completion.

How Much Does a House Extension Cost in Devon (2025)?

Here’s a rough guide to help with budgeting:

Small single-storey extension (15–20m²): From £35,000 + VAT
Wraparound or larger builds: £65,000 – £95,000
Double-storey extensions: From £85,000+
Garage conversions: From £15,000+

Costs depend on build complexity, finishes, groundworks, and whether plumbing or electrics are included. Our quotes are transparent and tailored to your project, including all labour, materials, and project management.

How Long Does an Extension Take to Build?

Every job is different, but as a guide:

Single-storey extension: 10–14 weeks
Double-storey extension: 14–20 weeks
Garage conversion: 3–5 weeks

We build to agreed timescales, with weekly updates, a named foreman, and clear milestones to keep your project moving.

Will It Disrupt My Day-to-Day Life?

It’s fair to expect some noise, dust, and restricted access—but we go out of our way to reduce disruption. Our team:

Works cleanly and efficiently
Minimises intrusion on your living spaces
Keeps you updated throughout

We also offer phased build schedules and temporary protection where needed—especially if you’re staying on site with young children or pets.

Will a House Extension Add Value?

Yes—especially if it improves the layout, adds bedrooms, or creates open-plan living spaces. A well-designed extension can add 10–25% to your property’s market value.

At Edleigh, we understand the balance between investment and liveability—so we’ll guide you towards the best use of your budget and space.

Why Choose Edleigh Construction?

Experienced Team: 20+ years of extensions, renovations, and structural builds
Local Knowledge: We understand Devon homes and planning policies
Trusted Network: We partner with leading local architects and consultants
Full-Service Build: We handle Building Control, structural works, and all on-site project delivery
Quality-First Craftsmanship: Accredited, insured, and FMB registered