Building an Extension: How to Plan, Budget and Manage Your Project

white kitchen diner extension with island and dining table
(Image credit: c/o KeDesign)

Building an extension isn't a one size fits all affair. Your build journey will be unique to you and your home so it's important to plan and manage it well for it to be successful.

Each extension will have its own criterion, whether you opt for a wrap around extension, a glazed single or two-storey extension, but there are some key details to get right, whatever your project. 

Ian Rock

Chartered surveyor Ian Rock MRICS is a director is Rightsurvey.co.uk and the author of eight popular Haynes House Manuals, including the Home Extension Manual, the Self Build Manual and Period Property Manual.


Ian is also the founder of Zennor Consultants. In addition to providing house surveys, Zennor Consultants provide professional guidance on property refurbishment and maintenance as well as advising on the design and construction of home extensions and loft conversions, including planning and Building Regulations compliance.


Ian has recently added a 100m2 extension to his home; he designed and project managed the build and completed much of the interior fit-out on a DIY basis.