Find house extension builders near me

More space without moving house

A house extension can give you the extra room you need without having to move. Whether you're adding a larger kitchen, creating another living area or extending upstairs, the design needs to work with the existing house.

The size of the extension is only one part of the decision. The layout, structure, materials, access and services can all affect what the finished project involves.

Start with what you want the extra space to do

An extension should solve a specific problem rather than simply add floor area.

A rear extension might create the open-plan kitchen and dining space you've been missing, while a side extension could provide a home office or utility room. A two-storey extension can add considerably more usable space where the site allows it.

Think about how you'll use the new rooms before deciding on the size and layout. This will give your designer and builder a much clearer brief.

How much does a house extension cost in Ireland?

A single-storey house extension in Ireland costs around €1,800 to €2,800 per m². A two-storey extension typically costs around €2,200 to €3,200 per m².

These figures cover the construction cost per square metre, but the total project budget can include other costs. Design, professional fees, planning-related work, site preparation, utilities and finishes may need to be considered separately.

A larger extension will therefore cost more overall, even if the price per square metre stays within a similar range.

The design stage can prevent expensive changes

Before construction begins, you need to know how the new space will connect to the existing property.

An architectural service can help develop the plans, consider the structure and work through how the extension will fit the site. This is also the stage to think about windows, doors, natural light, insulation and how the new rooms will connect to the rest of the house.

Making major layout changes after construction has started can be much more disruptive than resolving them during the design stage.

Check the planning position early

Don't assume that every extension needs the same permissions.

Whether your project requires planning permission depends on the property and the proposed works. Some extensions may qualify for exemptions, while others will need a planning application or additional approvals.

Ask your designer or extension specialist to explain which requirements apply to your project and confirm the position with your local planning authority before work starts.

What is included in the build?

An extension involves much more than constructing the new walls.

The project may include foundations, structural work, insulation, windows, roofing, plastering, flooring, plumbing and electrical installation. Some builders manage these trades themselves, while others coordinate separate specialists.

Ask whether the quote covers the complete build or only specific stages. Bark's Irish extension service notes that specialists may handle multiple parts of an extension, including walls, ventilation, electrics, plastering and decorating.

For electrical work, you can also compare local electricians. If the project involves new or relocated plumbing, a plumber may need to be involved before the walls and floors are finished.

The roof needs to work with the existing house

The new roof should look appropriate alongside the existing property while also providing the required weather protection and insulation.

A simple single-storey extension may have a relatively straightforward roof, while more complicated designs can involve different pitches, roof junctions or connections to the existing structure.

If the project requires significant roofing work, you can compare roofing installation and replacement professionals as part of the wider build.

Budget for the parts you won't see

Some of the most important elements of an extension disappear behind walls, floors and ceilings once construction is finished.

Foundations, insulation, drainage, structural supports and service connections can all affect the project cost. Site conditions can also change what is required once excavation begins.

Ask your builder how unexpected issues will be handled and make sure any provisional sums or allowances are clearly identified in the quote.

Think about living through the build

An extension can affect how you use your home for several weeks or months.

Depending on the design, you may lose access to your kitchen, have part of the house opened up or need temporary arrangements for utilities. Discuss the expected construction sequence with your builder before work starts.

A clear programme can help you understand which parts of the house will be affected and when.

Compare complete quotes rather than headline prices

Extension quotes are difficult to compare if each builder has allowed for different things.

Check the floor area, specification, structural work, windows and doors, insulation, roofing, plumbing, electrics, finishes and waste removal. Also confirm whether professional fees and other project costs sit outside the construction price.

A detailed quote makes it easier to understand where your money is going and identify differences between builders.

Finding an extension specialist on Bark

Bark can connect you with property extension specialists across Ireland. Tell us the type of extension you're considering, the approximate size and what you want the additional space to achieve.

You can then compare local professionals, reviews and quotes before deciding who to hire. Bark's Irish extension service allows you to review specialists and discuss your project before booking any work.