East Sussex · BN1, BN2, BN3
Extensions in Brighton and Hove
A home extension adds new floor space to an existing property — commonly a rear or side-return kitchen extension, a wraparound, or a first-floor addition — and typically involves planning or permitted development approval, Building Regulations, and coordination of groundworks, structure, roofing and internal finishing.
In Brighton and Hove, that covers Kemp Town, Hove, Preston Park, Hanover, Seven Dials, Fiveways, Patcham, Portslade. Brighton and Hove is known for its Regency architecture, extensive Victorian terraced housing, and later 20th-century development, all within a compact coastal city where many properties are in conservation areas and a significant number are listed.
Coverage
Areas we cover in Brighton and Hove for extensions
Property styles in Brighton and Hove
Regency squares and terraces are concentrated around Brunswick, Kemp Town and the seafront, with dense Victorian terraced housing across much of the wider city, and later suburban housing further from the centre. Basement conversions, loft conversions and rear extensions are common project types on the terraced stock, subject to conservation area and party wall considerations.
Planning considerations
Brighton & Hove City Council is the local planning authority. The city has one of the highest concentrations of conservation areas of any local authority in the South East, and many properties are listed, particularly in the Regency squares. Basement work also requires careful consideration of structural and drainage issues in a dense urban setting.
How it works
Our extensions process
- 01
Feasibility and survey
Assessing what is achievable on the plot, including boundary conditions, trees, drainage and neighbouring properties.
- 02
Design
Developing layout and elevations that work with the existing house, in scale and materials.
- 03
Planning route
Establishing whether the extension falls under permitted development or requires a full planning application, and submitting accordingly.
- 04
Party wall matters
Serving party wall notices where the extension is near a boundary, ahead of any groundworks starting.
- 05
Construction
Groundworks, structure, roof, and first fix through to decoration, with the existing house kept weathertight throughout.
- 06
Completion
Building Control sign-off, snagging list and handover.
Also in this area
Other services we provide in Brighton and Hove
Nearby coverage
Extensions in nearby areas
FAQs
Extensions in Brighton and Hove: FAQs
Do you provide extensions across all of Brighton and Hove?
Yes, we cover the BN1 and BN2 and BN3 postcode areas in full, including Kemp Town, Hove, Preston Park, Hanover, Seven Dials, Fiveways, Patcham, Portslade.
Do I need planning permission for a rear extension?
Many single-storey rear extensions fall under permitted development if they meet size, height and boundary criteria. Larger extensions, those on designated land, or properties where permitted development rights have been removed, need a full planning application. We assess this during the feasibility stage.
What is a party wall notice and do I need one?
If your extension involves work at or near a shared boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 usually requires you to notify your neighbour before work starts. We flag this during design so notices can be served in good time.
Can I extend a listed Regency property in Brighton?
Alterations to listed buildings require listed building consent in addition to any planning permission, and the historic character of Regency terraces means proposals are considered carefully. We assess feasibility on a case-by-case basis.
Get a quote for extensions in Brighton and Hove
Tell us about the property and what you have in mind, and we'll arrange a site visit.
Last reviewed 2026-07-19.