Surrey · GU1, GU2, GU3, GU4
Extensions in Guildford
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 Guildford, that covers Onslow Village, Merrow, Burpham, Stoughton, Westborough, Charlotteville, Shalford. Guildford is Surrey's county town, with a historic cobbled High Street, a substantial university population, and residential areas ranging from Victorian terraces near the centre to larger detached houses in the surrounding hills, close to the North Downs and Surrey Hills.
Coverage
Areas we cover in Guildford for extensions
Property styles in Guildford
Guildford's housing stock spans Victorian and Edwardian terraces close to the town centre, substantial interwar and postwar detached housing in areas such as Onslow Village and Merrow, and newer developments on the town's edges.
Planning considerations
Guildford Borough Council is the local planning authority. The historic town centre and several residential areas are conservation areas, and parts of the borough fall within the Surrey Hills National Landscape, affecting design and materials for visible extensions.
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 Guildford
Nearby coverage
Extensions in nearby areas
FAQs
Extensions in Guildford: FAQs
Do you provide extensions across all of Guildford?
Yes, we cover the GU1 and GU2 and GU3 and GU4 postcode areas in full, including Onslow Village, Merrow, Burpham, Stoughton, Westborough, Charlotteville, Shalford.
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.
Are there conservation areas across Guildford?
Yes, several, including the historic town centre and parts of some residential neighbourhoods. We check the position for your specific address as part of the feasibility assessment.
Get a quote for extensions in Guildford
Tell us about the property and what you have in mind, and we'll arrange a site visit.
Last reviewed 2026-07-19.