Not always. Many single-storey rear extensions and rear-dormer loft conversions fall under Permitted Development rights, meaning no full planning application is needed — provided they stay within national size, height and volume limits. However, in Oxford these rights are commonly restricted in conservation areas, on listed buildings, on flats and maisonettes, and where an Article 4 direction applies. Even when planning permission isn’t required, Building Regulations approval almost always is. We assess your property and handle the whole process for you.

Generally yes. A well-built loft conversion can add roughly 15–20% to a property’s value in the UK, and in higher-value areas such as much of Oxford it is one of the strongest returns on investment among home improvements often cheaper than moving. The exact uplift depends on local prices, the conversion type and the quality of the finish.

A Velux (or ‘rooflight’) conversion keeps the existing roof shape and simply adds windows  the most affordable option. A dormer adds a box-shaped structure that extends the roof to create full headroom and floor space  the most popular choice. A hip-to-gable converts a sloping side roof into a vertical gable wall to gain volume, common on semi-detached and end-terrace homes. We’ll advise which suits your roof and budget.

As a rough guide: a single-storey extension usually takes around 8–12 weeks of construction, a loft conversion around 6–10 weeks, and a new build several months, plus design and planning time beforehand, which can add 8–12 weeks if a planning application is required. We give you a clear schedule in your written quote and keep you updated throughout.

Ask to see examples of completed projects similar to yours and speak to past clients. Check they are fully insured and offer a written workmanship guarantee. Always get a detailed, itemised written quote rather than a verbal estimate, and be wary of the cheapest price if it leaves out essentials like scaffolding, skips or building-regs fees. Reputable builders are happy to answer all of these questions — we are.

Yes. We manage the full proces drawings, planning applications to the relevant council (Oxford City, Cherwell, South Oxfordshire, Vale of White Horse or West Oxfordshire), Building Regulations approval, and arranging the required inspections, so you have a single point of contact throughout.

Yes. We carry full public liability insurance and provide a workmanship guarantee on every project. 

Yes. Oxford has a large number of period and listed properties, and we carry out sympathetic restoration and renovation that respects the building’s character while meeting modern standards. Listed buildings require Listed Building Consent and usually Building Regulations approval, which we help you obtain.