Building Insights

Honest, practical guides to extensions, loft conversions, planning, costs and hiring a builder — written from 20 years on the trade across Shropshire and the West Midlands.

Costs & Pricing7 min read

How Much Does a House Extension Cost in Shropshire? (2026 Guide)

Real Shropshire and West Midlands extension prices from a 20-year FMB-member builder. Single-storey, two-storey, side-return and wrap-around costs explained, with what drives the price up or down.

Planning & Regulations6 min read

Do You Need Planning Permission for a Loft Conversion in the West Midlands?

Permitted development rules, when you need full planning, conservation-area rules across Dudley, Wolverhampton, Sandwell and Shropshire. Written by a 20-year FMB-member builder.

Design & Planning6 min read

Single-Storey vs Two-Storey Extensions: Which Is Right for Your Home?

A 20-year FMB builder breaks down the real trade-offs between single-storey and two-storey extensions — cost, space, planning, disruption, and resale value.

Project Management5 min read

How Long Does a House Extension Take to Build? (Real Timelines)

Honest week-by-week extension timelines from a 20-year Shropshire builder. Single-storey, two-storey and wrap-around — what really happens and when.

Hiring a Builder5 min read

Choosing a Builder in Shropshire: 7 Questions Every Homeowner Should Ask

How to avoid cowboy builders and find a reliable trade in Shropshire and the West Midlands. Seven specific questions to ask before signing any contract.

Costs & Pricing7 min read

How Much Does a Loft Conversion Cost in the West Midlands? (2026 Guide)

Real 2026 loft conversion prices across the West Midlands and Shropshire — Velux, dormer and hip-to-gable. What drives the cost, what's included, and whether you need planning. From a 20-year FMB builder.

Costs & Pricing6 min read

Garage Conversion Cost & Ideas: A Shropshire Builder's Guide (2026)

What a garage conversion costs in Shropshire and the West Midlands in 2026, the best uses for the space, planning rules, and what's involved. Honest guidance from a 20-year FMB builder.

Planning & Regulations7 min read

Do You Need Planning Permission for an Extension in Shropshire? (2026)

Permitted development rules for house extensions in Shropshire and the West Midlands — single-storey, two-storey, size limits, conservation areas and the council-by-council detail. From a 20-year FMB builder.