Modern Rear Extension Plans (Online Architect) | MyHomePlans

No — and this is one of the key advantages of using MyHomePlans’ online architect service. Modern rear extensions can be designed accurately and professionally without a site visit, provided the correct information is supplied at the outset.

At MyHomePlans, we work entirely remotely using a combination of:

• Existing floor plans or estate agent drawings 
• Client measurements and photos
• Google Maps and satellite data 
• Local planning policy and context analysis
   

This approach allows us to produce planning drawings, building regulations drawings, and 3D visualisations to the same professional standard as a traditional architect — without the delays or costs associated with site visits.

For the vast majority of rear extensions, particularly single-storey and double-storey rear extensions, a site visit is not a planning requirement. Local authorities assess applications based on drawings, dimensions, neighbour relationships, and policy compliance, not whether the designer physically visited the property.

Where structural information is required, this is typically verified later by:

• A structural engineer 
• Your builder during opening-up works 
• Building Control during inspections
   

By removing the need for site visits, MyHomePlans can offer:

• Fixed, transparent pricing
• Faster turnaround times 
• Nationwide and international service 
• A fully digital, stress-free experience
   

This model is ideal for homeowners who want certainty, speed, and professional quality, without paying traditional architect overheads.

While no architect can guarantee planning approval, a planning-led design approach significantly improves your chances — and this is where MyHomePlans excels.

Every rear extension design begins with a feasibility and policy review, considering:

• Local planning authority guidance 
• National planning policy
• Neighbour relationships 
• Overlooking, overshadowing, and massing 
• Design character and materials
   

We design rear extensions to sit comfortably within accepted planning limits, reducing the risk of refusal. This includes:

• Appropriate extension depth and height 
• Roof forms that minimise visual impact 
• Set-backs where required 
• Window placement that protects neighbour privacy
   

For semi-detached and terraced houses, particular care is taken to address neighbour amenity, as this is one of the most common reasons for refusal.

Our planning drawings are:

• Clear, professional, and consistent 
• Fully dimensioned 
• Easy for planners to assess 
• Coordinated across plans, elevations, and sections
   

This clarity reduces planning queries and delays.

In many cases, clients experience smooth planning approvals with minimal conditions because potential issues are resolved before submission.

Yes — many rear extensions can be built under Permitted Development (PD), meaning full planning permission is not required, provided the design meets specific criteria.

Permitted Development rights typically allow:

• Single-storey rear extensions up to 3m (terraced/semi-detached) or 4m (detached) 
• Larger extensions under the Prior Approval process 
• Specific height, boundary, and material limitations
   

However, PD rules are strict and technical, and mistakes can be costly.

At MyHomePlans, we assess:

• Property type and location 
• Conservation area or Article 4 status 
• Previous extensions 
• Boundary distances and site constraints
   

If PD applies, we produce:

• PD-compliant drawings 
• Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) drawings 
• Clear documentation for future sale or remortgage
   

Even when PD is available, good design still matters. A poorly designed PD extension can still cause neighbour disputes, overheating, or construction issues.

We design PD rear extensions that are:

• Planning-friendly 
• Builder-friendly 
• Future-proofed for resale

Yes — MyHomePlans works nationwide across England and Wales, and we also provide architectural design services internationally. Because our service is delivered entirely online, your location is never a barrier. Whether your property is in a major city, a conservation area, or a rural setting, we can design your rear extension efficiently and professionally.

We regularly deliver rear extension projects in London and the Home Counties, as well as cities such as Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Bristol, Bath, Oxford, and Cambridge. Our experience also extends to suburban estates, coastal towns, and countryside locations.

We are highly familiar with the challenges posed by different local planning authorities, including conservation area policies, urban density constraints, and rural planning considerations. All drawings are produced to UK planning permission and building regulations standards, ensuring consistency and compliance regardless of where your property is located.

A typical rear extension planning application in the UK requires a comprehensive and clearly presented set of drawings. These usually include:

• Existing floor plans 
• Proposed floor plans 
• Existing elevations 
• Proposed elevations 
• Site location plan 
• Block plan
   

In some cases, sections, daylight diagrams, or neighbour relationship drawings may also be required to support the application.

MyHomePlans provides a complete planning drawing package, professionally prepared to reduce delays and avoid unnecessary requests from planning officers. Our drawings are accurately scaled, clearly dimensioned, and visually consistent, ensuring the design intent is easy to understand and assess.

Yes — building regulations drawings are essential before construction begins. These technical drawings go far beyond planning approval and are required by Building Control and your builder.

They cover key construction elements including structural design intent, insulation and thermal performance, fire safety, drainage layouts, and ventilation strategies. Without these drawings, builders are forced to make assumptions, which often leads to delays, increased costs, and on-site issues.

MyHomePlans produces detailed, build-ready building regulations drawings, giving builders clarity and helping your project run smoothly from day one.

Because we work online using proven processes, our timelines are reliable and predictable. Typical timescales are:

• Concept and layout design: 3–5 working days 
• Planning drawings: 7–10 working days 
• Building regulations drawings: 10–15 working days
   

This structured approach allows you to move from idea to construction-ready drawings efficiently, without unnecessary delays.

Absolutely. Photorealistic 3D renders are one of the biggest advantages of working with MyHomePlans. These visuals allow you to fully understand the scale, layout, light, and spatial flow of your rear extension before construction begins.

Clients consistently tell us that 3D renders reduce stress, improve communication with builders, and prevent costly design changes later in the project.

Typical UK build costs are:

• Single-storey rear extension: £60,000 – £90,000 
• Double-storey rear extension: £90,000 – £140,000
   

MyHomePlans’ design fees usually range from £1,250 to £1,500, depending on the scope of work. Clear, coordinated drawings significantly reduce build risk and help protect your overall budget.

An online architect offers lower fees, faster delivery, fixed pricing, and nationwide access, without unnecessary site visits. MyHomePlans combines professional architectural expertise with a modern, digital-first service — giving homeowners clarity, control, and confidence from the very start of their rear extension project.