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House Extension Cost in Scotland: 2026 Price Guide

08 Aug 2026

Beyond the kitchen-focused rear extension, many homeowners across Scotland, including in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Dundee, look at side-return infills or full double-storey extensions to add real square footage without moving house.

Typical costs

  • Side return infill: roughly £18,000-£30,000
  • Single-storey rear extension: roughly £25,000-£55,000
  • Double-storey extension: £55,000-£100,000+

A double-storey extension isn't simply double the cost of a single-storey one - the roof, foundations and scaffolding are a large fixed cost, so the additional storey is often better value per square metre.

What affects the price

Properties within a conservation area face tighter controls on matching brick, roofline and window styles to the existing building, which can add to material costs even for an extension that wouldn't otherwise need planning permission. Access is another factor on tighter terraced streets, where scaffolding, skips and material deliveries often need council permits that a local builder will usually already be familiar with.

Planning permission

Side return and single-storey rear extensions often qualify for permitted development if they stay within set size limits, but double-storey extensions almost always need full planning permission - and planning permission and permitted development rights in Scotland are set separately from the rest of the UK, so always check the specific rules with your local council rather than assuming an England-based guide applies.

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a house extension cost in Scotland?

Roughly £18,000-£30,000 for a side return infill, £25,000-£55,000 for a single-storey rear extension, and £55,000-£100,000+ for a double-storey extension.

Do I need planning permission for a double-storey extension in Scotland?

Almost always yes - unlike many single-storey rear extensions, double-storey extensions rarely qualify for permitted development, and planning permission and permitted development rights in Scotland are set separately from the rest of the UK, so always check the specific rules with your local council rather than assuming an England-based guide applies.