Expanding your home can be one of the most rewarding decisions you make as a homeowner. Whether you’re growing your family, working from home more often, or simply craving more space, a well-planned extension can transform how you live – and add real value to your property.
At Facelift Home Improvements, we’ve supported homeowners across Crawley, Horsham, East Grinstead and surrounding areas through every step of the extension process. We understand the local planning rules, the design challenges, and the practical realities of working on your home – and we’re here to make the journey as smooth as possible.
Here’s everything you need to know before taking the next step.
1. Define Your Goals Clearly
Every great extension starts with a purpose. Think carefully about what you want to achieve. Are you looking to create a larger open-plan kitchen? Add an extra bedroom or bathroom? Build a utility room, study, or even a self-contained annex?
Understanding the function of your new space will guide your decisions around layout, materials, finishes, and budget. It also ensures that the extension integrates seamlessly with the rest of your home – both in terms of style and usability.
If you’re unsure what’s possible within your existing footprint, our team can offer expert design guidance to help you maximise space and light without compromising the character of your property.
2. Check Planning Permission and Building Regulations
Not all extensions require full planning permission – some can be built under what’s known as “permitted development.” However, there are strict rules around size, height, and proximity to boundaries. These can vary depending on the type of property (e.g. terraced, semi-detached, detached) and whether your home is in a conservation area or has already been extended.
In Crawley, it’s vital to check with the local planning authority or work with professionals who understand the council’s specific requirements. At Facelift, we’ll help you navigate this process from the start. We can assess whether your project qualifies under permitted development, or if a planning application is required, we can manage it on your behalf.
Separately, all extensions must comply with Building Regulations. These rules cover structural integrity, insulation, fire safety, electrics, drainage, and more. We ensure all our work is fully compliant and inspected at key stages for peace of mind.
3. Be Realistic With Your Budget
One of the most common causes of stress during a building project is budget creep – unexpected costs that weren’t accounted for at the start. That’s why we believe in clear, upfront quoting and honest advice about where your money will be spent.
The total cost of your extension will depend on the size, complexity, and finish of the build. Don’t forget to budget for:
- Architectural or technical drawings
- Planning or application fees
- Structural engineering (where needed)
- Kitchens, bathrooms, or other fittings
- Internal finishes like plastering, flooring, and decorating
- A contingency fund (we recommend around 10–15%)
We’ll provide a detailed, no-obligation quote and walk you through each line item so there are no surprises later on.
4. Choose the Right Builder for the Job
Not all builders are created equal – and when you’re trusting someone to work on your home, experience, reliability, and professionalism matter.
At Facelift Home Improvements, we’ve built a strong reputation across West Sussex and Surrey for high-quality workmanship, friendly service, and dependable project management. We handle everything in-house, including:
- Groundworks and structural building
- Windows, doors, and roofing
- Plumbing and electrics
- Insulation and plastering
- Kitchens, bathrooms, and interior finishing
You’ll have one point of contact throughout, regular updates on progress, and a team that treats your home with care and respect.
We’re also fully insured, certified, and compliant with all local regulations.
5. Understand the Timeline
While smaller extensions can sometimes be completed in 6–8 weeks, most single-storey builds take around 8–12 weeks from breaking ground to completion. Larger or more complex projects (such as double-storey extensions or those involving structural alterations) may take longer.
At Facelift, we’ll give you a realistic timeframe based on your specific plans. Our project manager will keep you informed at every stage, including:
- Site preparation and foundations
- Structural build
- Windows, doors, and roofing
- Internal works and finishing
We also factor in weather conditions, material lead times, and any planning approvals needed, so you’re never left in the dark about what’s happening or when.
Why Homeowners in Crawley Choose Facelift
We’re a trusted, local business that puts customers first. Our goal isn’t just to build beautiful spaces – it’s to make the whole process smooth, transparent, and stress-free for you.
Our clients choose us because we:
- Offer expert, no-pressure advice
- Handle everything from start to finish
- Communicate clearly and regularly
- Have a proven track record across Crawley and the surrounding area
We don’t cut corners. We don’t overpromise. We simply deliver great results with a team you can trust.
Let’s Talk About Your Extension Plans
Thinking of extending your home in Crawley, Horsham, East Grinstead, or anywhere nearby? Whether you’re ready to build or still weighing up your options, we’d be happy to help.
We offer free, no-obligation consultations and can provide guidance even if you’re early in the planning process.
