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myKitchen Extension Cost
At a Glance
- The average kitchen extension cost is around £50,000 in the UK.
- Completing a kitchen extension typically takes between 5 and 10 weeks.
- Average costs for different kitchen extensions and kitchen extension costs per m² in 2026.
- How long a kitchen extension usually takes and what's involved.
- How to find and hire a builder to add a kitchen extension to your home using MyJobQuote.
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£50,000
Table of Contents
- How Much Does a Kitchen Extension Cost?
- Labour Cost of a Kitchen Extension
- Kitchen Extension Cost Breakdown
- What's Included in a Kitchen Extension Quote?
- What Impacts the Cost of a Kitchen Extension?
- Additional Kitchen Extension Costs
- Supply Cost of Kitchen Extensions
- What's Involved in Building a Kitchen Extension?
- Building Regulations & Planning Permission for Kitchen Extensions
- Types of Kitchen Extensions
- Benefits of Building a Kitchen Extension
- Checklist: Hiring Contractors to Build a Kitchen Extension in the UK
- FAQs
How Much Does a Kitchen Extension Cost?
Most kitchen extensions cost between £40,000 and £70,000, with an average of around £50,000 for a fully completed project in 2026. Prices cover a wide range, with a small, basic extension starting from around £20,000 and a large, high-spec build exceeding £100,000.
The size of the extension, the quality of the finish, and where you live all have a big impact on the final figure. In London and the South East, a typical kitchen extension rises to around £55,000 to £90,000.
Kitchen Extension Price List
While build quality will affect your kitchen extension costs, the biggest factor will be the size of your extension. Below you can see how typical kitchen extension costs for projects of different sizes and finish levels.
| Extension Size | Basic Finish | Mid-Range Finish | High-End Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (15m²) | £20,000–£24,000 | £26,000–£30,000 | £27,000–£38,000 |
| Medium (24m²) | £32,000–£39,000 | £41,000–£48,000 | £43,000–£60,000 |
| Large (48m²) | £63,000–£78,000 | £82,000–£96,000 | £86,000–£120,000 |
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A kitchen extension is usually a single-storey build, so our guide to the cost of a single-storey extension is a useful comparison for the overall build cost, while a double-storey extension costs considerably more if you also want to add space upstairs.
Kitchen Extension Cost per m²
The average cost of a kitchen extension per m² ranges from £1,300 to over £2,500, depending on the build quality and spec.
Kitchen extension prices per m² help to calculate typical costs for different sized projects. The table below provides the average price per square metre for kitchen extensions, based on the quality of finish.
| Build Quality | Typical Cost per m² |
|---|---|
| Basic | £1,300–£1,600 |
| Mid-Range | £1,700–£2,000 |
| High-End | £1,800–£2,500+ |
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Labour Cost of a Kitchen Extension
Let's take a look at labour costs and timescales for this type of job.
When it comes to building a kitchen extension, there are many different parts to the job, and you will need to hire more than one contractor to get all of the work done.
Labour typically accounts for around 40% to 50% of the total cost of a kitchen extension, with materials making up a similar share and professional fees, such as an architect, structural engineer, and building control, taking the remaining 10% to 15%. Based on typical project costs, that works out roughly as follows:
| Extension Size | Typical Labour Cost |
|---|---|
| Small (around 15m²) | £9,000–£11,000 |
| Medium (around 24m²) | £18,000–£23,000 |
| Large (around 48m²) | £42,000–£53,000 |
Below is an overview of the contractors that you may need to hire for this type of work:
| Trade | Typical Day Rate | Typical Time on Site |
|---|---|---|
| Builder / groundworker | £140–£250 | 3 to 6 weeks |
| Roofer | £145–£225 | 3 to 5 days |
| Window & door fitter | £110–£170 | 1 to 2 days |
| Electrician | £120–£350 | 3 to 5 days |
| Plumber | £120–£250 | 2 to 4 days |
| Plasterer | £100–£170 | 3 to 5 days |
| Carpenter / joiner | £130–£180 | 2 to 5 days |
| Kitchen fitter | £125–£160 | 3 to 7 days |
| Painter & decorator | £100–£190 | 3 to 5 days |
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A structural engineer typically charges £40 to £100 per hour for the calculations and drawings, and an interior designer (optional) around £25 to £60 per hour.
Interior Designer
If you don't have a complete idea of what you're looking for with your new kitchen extension, an interior designer could help you design your dream kitchen.
They will work with you to create an aesthetically pleasing space that is fully functional and ticks all of your boxes. For inspiration before you get started, take a look at our kitchen ideas guide.
Structural Engineer
It's a good idea to hire a structural engineer before you go through with an extension, as they will be able to advise how practical the extension is and will be able to establish all of the alterations you can make during the extension.
They will also advise you on the materials needed to complete the job and how to ensure the new structure is safe.
Builder
Once you've got your design in place and it's ready to go, you can then start contacting builders for a quote on the building work. This way, they'll be able to give you a much more accurate price.
Always ask the contractor for examples of their previous work so that you can ensure they can complete everything you're asking for to a high standard.
Kitchen Installer
A kitchen installer can provide you with a complete, high-quality kitchen fitting. They will provide designs and manufacture units for your dream kitchen.
They will also take care of all of the installation work.
All of this will usually come as a complete price. Alternatively, you can buy your own kitchen and hire a kitchen fitter to do the installation work.
Carpenter/Joiner
If you are having wood cladding installed on your extension, or if you would like to have hardwood floors installed, you may need to hire a carpenter or joiner to do this part of the work.
Plasterer
Once the extension is built, you will need to plaster the ceilings and walls. Many plasterers can also render the exterior of your extension if you wish.
Window Fitter
A window fitter will be able to fit any window you want in your new extension. They can also install additional things such as bi-folding doors, sliding doors, or even a skylight.
We're planning out a small kitchen extension but I'm not sure how many electrical points are needed in a kitchen to ensure we have enough. Any advice or tips on this please?
"Almost as many as you like! Allow a socket for each under-counter appliance on its own circuit, the 'appliance ring', with your fridge and freezer on this too. Put sockets for your kettle, toaster and similar on the 'kitchen ring', but your oven and hob may need their own circuit. Whoever carries out the electrical work should provide you with a design to consider."
Roofer
A roofer will be able to design the roof for your extension to your requirements. This is someone who specialises in roofing construction, and so they will be able to offer the best advice.
They will also design and build a suitable roof for your extension, which is aesthetically pleasing.
Painter and Decorator
A painter and decorator will handle the décor of the interior and will be able to offer you the best advice on how to get your kitchen looking perfect.
They will paint and wallpaper your walls and will also gloss wooden areas such as the doorframes.
You can choose to hire a company to handle the entire extension for you. This will include all the building work, fixtures and fittings, and decorating.
Alternatively, you can take a look at the information above and shop around for various contractors for each part of the job.
Fitting a new kitchen extension will take several weeks and possibly even months to complete.
The timescales can vary greatly depending on the type of extension, the extension's size, and the additional work included, such as fitting the kitchen and any extra plumbing or electrical work needed.
Most kitchen extensions take between 5 and 10 weeks from breaking ground to completion, though larger or more complex builds can take 3 to 4 months, especially those needing major groundworks or bespoke glazing.
Kitchen Extension Cost Breakdown
A kitchen extension is a significant investment, and it can be helpful to understand how much of your budget needs to be spent on the different parts of the project.
The table below breaks down how a typical kitchen extension budget is split across the main parts of the project, with example figures for a mid-range £45,000 build. The percentages apply to projects of any size, so the pound figures scale up or down with your total budget.
| Cost Element | Typical % of Total | Example (£45,000 build) |
|---|---|---|
| Groundworks & Structure | 30 to 45% | £16,000 |
| Roofing | 10 to 15% | £6,000 |
| Windows & Doors | 10 to 25% | £7,000 |
| Kitchen & Installation | 15 to 30% | £9,000 |
| Plumbing & Electrics | 10 to 15% | £4,000 |
| Internal Finishes | 5 to 15% | £2,000 |
| Professional Fees | 5 to 10% | £1,000 |
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What's Included in a Kitchen Extension Quote?
All the costs we've looked at are for a complete kitchen extension from start to finish, but the quotes you receive may be for different levels of work. One builder might quote only for the building work and the extension shell, while another includes first-fix plumbing and electrics but leaves the inside unfinished.
That's why quotes vary so much, and why it's important to understand exactly what's included. The list below shows the typical cost per m² for each level of finish:
- Basic Structure (Shell Only) — £1,000 to £1,400 per m². Covers the foundations, walls, roof, windows, and doors.
- Partially Finished — £1,400 to £1,800 per m². The structure plus plastering, electrics, and plumbing.
- Fully Finished (Turnkey) — £1,700 to £2,500+ per m². A complete extension including the kitchen, flooring, and finishes.
We are planning a small single storey extension (1m x 4m) which will be an expansion to our current kitchen area and will involve knocking through the wall into the kitchen and adding an RSJ. The roof will be a sloped roof joining onto the vertical wall that is already in place, with a single small skylight. What would be a ball park figure for this?
"You're looking at around £17k with structural engineer drawings required for the opening that would require an RSJ on new piers and padstones."
Kitchen Extension Cost Calculator
What Impacts the Cost of a Kitchen Extension?
Several factors affect how much a kitchen extension costs. The main ones to be aware of are:
- Size of the Extension — The bigger the footprint, the more materials and labour required, so size is usually the single biggest cost driver.
- Quality of Finish — Standard, mid-range, or high-end units, worktops, flooring, and glazing can significantly change the final price.
- Ground Conditions and Foundations — Poor or sloping ground, nearby trees, or the need for deeper foundations all add to groundwork costs and time.
- Structural Work — Knocking through into the existing kitchen usually needs a steel beam (RSJ) and structural calculations, which adds to the cost.
- Roof and Glazing — Flat versus pitched roofs, and features such as roof lanterns, skylights, or bi-fold doors, all affect the price.
- Plumbing and Electrical Work — New or relocated pipework, drainage, sockets, and lighting add to the cost, and older homes may need their electrics upgraded.
- Drainage — Diverting drains or building over or near a public sewer can require approval and extra work.
- Planning and Building Regulations — Most extensions are permitted developments, but planning applications, building control, and professional fees add to the budget where they apply.
- Access to the Site — Restricted access, such as a terraced home with no side entrance, makes moving materials and waste slower and more costly.
- Location in the UK — Labour rates vary by region, and homeowners in London and the South East typically pay 10% to 50% more than those elsewhere.
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Additional Kitchen Extension Costs
There are a few additional costs that can come up alongside the main build. The most common are:
- Light Fittings — installing new light fittings costs around £80 to £200 each, depending on the type.
- New Radiator — replacing a radiator costs around £200 to £300 supplied and fitted, or more if it needs moving to a new location.
- New Window or Double Glazing — double glazing costs around £200 to £600 per window, depending on size and specification.
- Underfloor Heating — a popular upgrade for a new kitchen floor, underfloor heating typically costs around £50 to £100 per m² for an electric system.
- Waste Removal and Skip Hire — hiring a skip to clear rubble and old materials usually costs £200 to £400 for a builder's skip.
What options other than a roof lantern or skylights do I have to make my kitchen extension really light and airy?
"A good idea to make an extension or any space light and airy is to install a set of bifold doors that stretch from floor to ceiling. They expand the width of the extension, providing a great view of your garden when open and making the interior feel like part of it."
Supply Cost of Kitchen Extensions
Below is a table highlighting the supply costs of a kitchen extension. This indicates all of the costs that may come up without the cost of labour:
| Type of Supplies | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic Kitchen Units | £3,000–£5,800 |
| Average Kitchen Units | £4,300–£7,600 |
| Deluxe Kitchen Units | £5,100–£10,500 |
| Basic Kitchen Worktops | £20–£40 per m² |
| Average Kitchen Worktops | £75–£200 per m² |
| Deluxe Kitchen Worktops | £300–£500 per m² |
| Washing Machine | £200–£500 |
| Oven | £300–£800 |
| Hob | £100–£400 |
| Cooker Hood | £200–£500 |
| Dishwasher | £300–£600 |
| Fridge Freezer | £200–£800 |
| Basic Flooring | £10–£30 per m² |
| Average Flooring | £30–£60 per m² |
| Deluxe Flooring | £50–£100 per m² |
| Wall Décor (Tiles/Wallpaper/Paint) | £20–£50 per m² |
| Windows | £200–£600 each |
| External Door | £400–£900 |
| Internal Door | £50–£300 |
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How much on average for a 3m x 2m extension on back of a terrace house, with a toilet? I was quoted approx £55,000 in the Southeast, but this seems quite high (especially when I am providing some of the materials).
"Yes that is very, very high. A rough estimate for a job of that size would be £20,000. That would include all labour and materials required to finish the job."
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What's Involved in Building a Kitchen Extension?
The exact process for building a kitchen extension varies from home to home, but most projects follow the same broad stages. Here's a rough guide to what's involved, but always confirm the specific steps with your contractor.
Before the Job
- Plan and Permissions — Confirm the scope, secure planning permission or check it qualifies as permitted development, and arrange building control.
- Surveys and Checks — Carry out a site survey and any Party Wall or asbestos checks, and clear safe access to the site.
- Order Materials — Get the materials for the early phases in place so the work isn't held up.
During the Job
- Foundations First — Dig and pour the foundations, then build the structural shell (walls, steels, and floor), with building control inspecting at key stages.
- Watertight Shell — Fit the roof, windows, and doors to make the extension watertight, then carry out first-fix plumbing and electrics.
- Fit-Out — Insulate, plaster, and complete second-fix work before installing the kitchen units, flooring, and appliances.
After the Job
- Testing — Test the heating, plumbing, electrics, windows, and doors, and fix any issues found.
- Sign-Off — Get building control to sign off the finished work, along with any Gas Safe or electrical certificates.
Building Regulations & Planning Permission for Kitchen Extensions
Many kitchen extensions are classed as permitted developments, so there is no need to apply for planning permission. To ensure your kitchen extension is compliant, you generally need to make sure:
- It is no taller than 4 metres.
- The extension does not extend further than 6 metres past the rear of an attached property or up to 8 metres for a detached home.
- The build is a single-storey extension less than half the size of the current building.
Before building a kitchen extension, you should contact your local council to check whether the job will fall under permitted developments.
It is crucial to ensure you check before starting the build. If you don't, you can be forced to demolish your kitchen extension at your own cost.
You may need to obtain a party wall agreement and notify your neighbour before the build if you live in an attached property that shares walls.
Building Regulations
Building regulations approvals may be required at certain stages of the build.
To ensure your build follows regulations, you should hire a qualified contractor who has experience with kitchen extensions.
You or your contractor will need to either provide a submission to the local authority or use an approved inspector to assess the work at various stages of the build.
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Types of Kitchen Extensions
There are various types of kitchen extensions that you can choose from. Below is a list of the most popular kitchen extensions:
Rear Kitchen Extension Cost
A rear extension is erected at the back of the house and often uses up space in the rear garden.
This is a great option for those who live in terraced or semi-detached houses who may not be able to install a different type of extension due to the nature of their property. It also works great for detached houses.
Rear extension costs typically range from £30,000 to £60,000.
Side Return Kitchen Extension Cost
A side return extension uses up space at the side of the house. This is a great option for those who don't want to use up their garden area.
This type of extension is only suitable for semi-detached or detached homes with adequate space at the side for building.
The typical side extension cost is between £30,000 and £60,000.
Wrap-Around Extension Cost
A wrap-around extension is a combination of the side return extension and the rear extension.
This is a great option if you are looking for a large extension or don't want to take up too much room on either side of the house. This option will only work on semi-detached or detached properties.
The price you pay for each of these extension types will depend on the size of the extension, the quality of the build, and your location in the UK.
Wrap-around extensions cost approximately £40,000 to £70,000.
Benefits of Building a Kitchen Extension
There are several benefits to building a kitchen extension. The main ones include:
- More Space and Storage — A kitchen extension opens up the room and makes space for features like an island, a dining area, or extra storage, so the kitchen feels brighter and less cluttered.
- An Open-Plan Kitchen-Diner — Combining your kitchen and dining space creates a sociable, open-plan layout, and adding a kitchen diner can free up another room elsewhere in the home.
- A Strong Return on Investment — A well-planned kitchen extension can add more to your home's value than it costs to build, making it one of the more financially worthwhile home improvements.
- More Natural Light — Features like bi-fold doors, skylights, or a roof lantern can bring in plenty of daylight and open the room up to the garden.
- Adds Value to Your Home — A well-designed kitchen extension is a desirable feature that can increase your property's value when you come to sell.
Checklist: Hiring Contractors to Build a Kitchen Extension in the UK
Below is a list of some of the main things you should consider when looking for the right contractors to work on your kitchen extension:
- Do they have the right experience? This should include building similar kitchen extensions to the one you are looking for. It's also worth checking how many years they've been in operation and asking to see a portfolio of their work.
- Do they have positive reviews? Ask friends and family for recommendations, check their online presence for testimonials, and review their MyJobQuote profile for feedback.
- Have you requested more than one quote? Ask for a breakdown of costs to ensure a fair price for each element of the job, and request at least three separate quotes from local tradespeople.
- Are they covered by public liability insurance? Ensure the contractor has relevant insurance, including public liability, to cover injury or accidental damage.
- Will the contractor follow relevant guidelines? Confirm that the firm is aware of rules and regulations and can provide a Building Regulations Compliance Certificate if needed.
- Have you received a detailed contract? Before approving a quote, get an itemised breakdown of the work, timeline, number of contractors, and any additional costs such as waste removal.
- Does the contractor offer any guarantees with their work? Check that the build will be carried out to agreed specifications and that any defects will be addressed. Most companies also provide a post-completion warranty covering certain issues over a set period.
FAQs
How Do You Plan a Kitchen Extension?
To plan a kitchen extension, start by creating a list of ideas and set yourself a realistic budget. It's often a good idea to go slightly below how much you are willing to spend to compensate for any unexpected costs along the way. Decide on the type of extension and check if you need planning permission. Liaise with a designer, consider the layout and hire any necessary contractors, while establishing a clear timeline for the project.
Do I Need to Hire a Project Manager for a Kitchen Extension?
If the kitchen extension is relatively straightforward, then it may not be needed. However, for larger or more complex scenarios a project manager can keep the work on track and organise any tradesmen involved. This will also go towards keeping your kitchen extension on budget.
Can I Build a Kitchen Extension Myself?
A full kitchen extension isn't a realistic DIY project for most homeowners. It involves many different trades and skills, must meet building regulations, and needs to be built safely and correctly, which takes time even for an experienced team. That said, you can often reduce the cost by project-managing the build yourself and hiring individual trades directly, rather than paying a main contractor to oversee everything.
Do I Need an Architect to Design My Kitchen Extension?
Should your kitchen extension involve building work or structural changes to your property, an architect can provide you with the relevant design plans. They are also able to present them in a way suitable for putting forward to your local council in the event you require planning permission.
How Can I Ensure My Kitchen Extension Is Energy Efficient?
Installing energy-efficient windows and doors, LED lighting and using high-quality insulation will all help with energy efficiency. However, you can also continue this ethos when it comes to buying kitchen appliances, or you could even install solar panels and heat pumps to help reduce day-to-day running costs.
How Much Value Will a Kitchen Extension Add to My Home?
On average, a kitchen extension can add around 5% to 10% to the value of your home. Although in some instances this can potentially be even more, depending on factors such as the design and quality, size of the build, and local property market.
