The process of extending a house generally involves several stages: design, obtaining approvals, site preparation, construction, and finishing. During the design stage, homeowners work with architects or designers to plan the layout and appearance of the extension. Once the design is approved and any necessary permissions are granted, construction can begin, starting with groundwork and structural work before moving on to internal finishes such as flooring, lighting, and decoration.

There are several types of house extensions to consider. Rear extensions extend from the back of the house and are often used to create spacious kitchen-diners or living rooms. Side extensions make use of unused land to the side of a property, perfect for smaller rooms like an office or utility space. Wrap-around extensions combine both rear and side extensions to form an L-shaped layout, maximizing space and light. Two-story extensions, meanwhile, add substantial square footage by expanding vertically, making room for extra bedrooms or bathrooms and significantly increasing property value.