Financing a Home Extension
Whether you’re adding an extra bedroom, creating a bigger kitchen and dining area or making space for a home office, an extension can give you the extra room you need without having to move.
How much it costs will depend on the size and complexity of the project. Alongside the main building work, you may need to budget for architect and professional fees, foundations and structural work, roofing, windows and doors, as well as plumbing, electrics, heating and insulation.
Then there’s the inside to think about. Flooring, decorating, fixtures and finishes can all add to the final cost, particularly if your extension includes a new kitchen or bathroom. Getting a detailed quote early can give you a much clearer idea of how much you’ll need to finance.
How Much Does a Home Extension Cost in Ireland?
The cost of extending a home in Ireland can vary considerably. A relatively straightforward single-storey extension will have a very different budget from a larger project involving significant structural changes, a new kitchen or additional bathrooms.
Some of the main factors that can affect the overall cost include:
| Type of project | Things that affect the cost |
|---|---|
| Size of extension | Generally, a larger extension means higher construction and material costs |
| Type of extension | Rear, side, wraparound and two-storey extensions can involve different levels of work |
| Design & professional fees | Architect, engineer, planning and other professional services |
| Structural work | Foundations, supporting walls, steelwork and changes to the existing building |
| Windows & doors | Number, size, glazing specification and styles such as sliding or bifold doors |
| Interior specification | Flooring, lighting, heating, fitted furniture and decorating |
| Kitchens & bathrooms | Adding a kitchen or bathroom can significantly increase the overall project budget |
Do I Need Planning Permission for a Home Extension in Ireland?
Not every home extension in Ireland requires planning permission. Certain extensions to the rear of a house can qualify as exempted development, provided they meet the relevant conditions.
Whether your extension requires planning permission can depend on factors including its size, height, location, the amount of private open space remaining and previous extensions made to the property.
For example, the exempted development rules generally allow for extensions to the rear of a house up to certain floor-area limits, subject to a range of conditions. Different requirements can also apply depending on whether the property is terraced, semi-detached or detached and whether the extension is single or multiple storeys.
If you’re considering an extension, it’s important to establish the planning requirements before committing to the project. Your architect or other qualified professional can advise you, or you can check with your local planning authority.
View the Planning and Development Regulations
How Much Can I Borrow for a Home Extension?
Maximum Loan Term :
7.9%
7.9%
7.9%
This calculator is for illustrative purposes only, to give you, the borrower, an overview of the potential cost of borrowing. The Credit Union, or any of its staff, cannot be held responsible for any errors. Please note that this calculator only provides an indicative quote and actual repayments may vary.
Related Content:
Home Improvement Loans from Heritage Credit Union
Take a look at our Home Improvment Loan product. Borrow up to €100,000 at 7.9% APR.
Learn More
A Guide to Financing Home Improvements in Ireland
Read our guide in which we outline the main ways to finance home improvements in Ireland and highlight which options are most suitable in different scenarios, so you can make a well-informed decision with confidence.
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