Extensions & Additions

The cost of a home extension depends on several factors, including location, site access, structural complexity, finish level, material selection and the amount of new floor area being added.

As a general rule of thumb, ground floor home extensions in Sydney will often sit in the region of:

• $2,500–$3,500 per square metre for lightweight or timber-frame construction.
• $2,800–$4,000 per square metre for brick veneer construction.
• $3,200–$4,500+ per square metre for full brick or heavier masonry construction.

Second-storey additions usually cost more than ground floor extensions because they often involve structural upgrades, roof removal, temporary weather protection, stairs, engineering, scaffolding and greater disruption to the existing home.

As a general guide, second-storey additions in Sydney will often sit in the region of:

• $4,000–$5,800 per square metre for lightweight or timber-frame construction.
• $5,000–$7,000 per square metre for brick veneer or heavier construction.
• $5,500–$7,500+ per square metre for complex, high-spec or structurally demanding second-storey additions.

Smaller extensions, wet areas, difficult access, structural steel, custom windows, high-end finishes, complex rooflines or major changes to the existing home may push costs above these ranges.

Ideally speaking and similarly to structural renovations, extensions and additions budgets often range from 10% up to 40% of the current property value. So if using the same current median cost of a Sydney house, an extensive extension or addition would generally sit between $160,000 and $640,000.

This of course is also subject to the quality of materials used, the scope of works and the desired finish (be it a budget, midrange or high-end renovation).

Additionally, an extra 10-20% on top of the extension/ addition cost should always be budgeted for as a contingency plan for any works that are unforeseeable before beginning demolition.

Extension and addition costs can be complicated, but we use a broad formula which lets us hone in on a ballpark figure.

As a general rule of thumb in terms of square metre costing, an extension in Sydney will range from $2,500 – $5,500 per square metre.

But depending on the size of your home, the quality of materials used, site access, structural complexity, whether we are building out or adding another level, the cost per square metre may fall above or below this range.

The terms remodelling and renovating are often used interchangeably, while both do refer to making improvements/ alterations to an existing house, technically speaking they refer to 2 different types of construction. The definition of renovation means “to improve or restore to a good state of repair.” While the definition of remodelling is “to change the structure or form of a building or house”.

An average renovation will require 8-10 specific trades to complete. If you have the contacts, we suggest taking extra care when layering and scheduling each. Because any overlapping, or unreliability can cause a cascade effect that will potentially blow out an entire renovations timeline and budget.

This is where a reputable renovation company comes in, we ensure that all trades and suppliers are not only priced fairly, but that all timelines and milestones are respected and upheld.

The earlier the better. If you’re not experienced and/ or 100% confident in your ability to execute on your renovation. Getting a reputable company involved from the beginning stages will ensure you avoid all of the common pitfalls and save money by avoiding conflicts in things like architects, suppliers, architectural style, planning, building materials and strategy.

1. Increasing property value.
2. Modernising outdated features.
3. Opening up more space.
4. Personalising your environment.
5. Adding energy efficiency.
6. Repairing cosmetic or structural damage.
7. Increasing appeal for prospective buyers.
8. Enhancing your indoor and outdoor living experience.

1. Extensions.
2. Adding a 2nd or 3rd level.
3. Aesthetic interior changes.
4. Bathroom, kitchen & laundry upgrades.
5. Subdivisions.
6. Enhancing lifestyle.
7. Increasing value.
8. Improving indoor and outdoor living.

The best place to start is always by contacting a reputable and trusted renovation company or builder.

At Sydney Side Renovations we always recommend our clients to seek out multiple quotes. This way our clients have a realistic feeling for what to expect when in terms of pricing, professionalism, personalisation, steps in the process, timelines and requirements.