A brief guide for costs for house extensions in the Scottish Borders
If you are considering extending your home in the Scottish Borders, one of the first questions you will ask is how much it will cost.
The honest answer is that extension costs vary depending on size, complexity, specification and site conditions. However, understanding typical ranges can help you plan realistically from the outset.
Typical Extension Build Costs
Typical Extension Build Costs
In the Scottish Borders, a single storey extension typically ranges between £1,800 and £2,500 per square metre for standard construction and finishes. Higher specifications, large areas of glazing, bespoke detailing or complex ground conditions can increase this figure.
A double storey extension can sometimes offer better value per square metre, as the roof and foundations are shared across two levels. Costs often range between £1,600 and £2,300 per square metre, depending on design and specification.
These figures relate to construction costs only and do not include professional fees, structural engineering, surveys or statutory approvals.
What Influences the Cost?
Several factors influence the overall cost of an extension in the Scottish Borders.
The size and shape of the extension plays a significant role. Simple rectangular forms are usually more cost effective than complex layouts. Ground conditions can also affect cost. Sloping sites, poor soil conditions or the need for retaining structures may increase foundation costs. Specification and finishes make a noticeable difference. Large sliding doors, rooflights and bespoke glazing systems add to the overall budget, as do high quality internal finishes. Finally, location can influence contractor pricing. Access constraints and material availability may affect labour and logistics.
Professional Fees and Approvals
In addition to construction costs, you should allow for professional services.
These typically include measured surveys, design development, planning drawings and planning submission support. If your project requires a Building Warrant, technical drawings and structural engineering input will also be needed. Planning and Building Warrant fees are set by the local authority and vary depending on project value.
Understanding these additional costs early allows you to budget confidently and avoid unexpected surprises.
Is an Extension Worth the Investment?
For many homeowners in the Scottish Borders, an extension can significantly improve day-to-day living while increasing property value.
Creating open plan kitchen spaces, adding an additional bedroom or improving connections to the garden can transform how a home feels and functions. The key is to design carefully and align the proposal with both your budget and local planning policy.
Planning Your Extension
At True North Designs, we work with homeowners across Peebles and the wider Scottish Borders to assess feasibility, explore design options and prepare planning drawings that respond carefully to the site.Early clarity around budget and scope helps ensure your extension is both achievable and well considered.
If you are thinking about extending your home, you are welcome to arrange a free design consultation to discuss your ideas and likely costs.
