Building cost in Camden: 2026 rates.
Camden homeowner project costs run £3,200–£4,400/m² for rear extensions and £75k–£140k for loft conversions on 2026 rates. The borough's Victorian terrace and converted mansion-block stock is well-understood by local contractors, so quote competition is healthy, but Camden's basement policy and Hampstead/Primrose Hill conservation areas push specification cost up sharply on protected streets.
| Project type | Typical 2026 cost |
|---|---|
| Rear extension | £3,200–£4,400/m² |
| Loft conversion (total) | £75,000–£140,000 |
| Full refurbishment | £2,600–£3,900/m² |
| Basement (per m²) | £5,200–£8,200/m² |
All figures exclude VAT (20% on most refurb/extension work), professional fees (8–14% typical), party wall awards and statutory costs.
- Camden's Basement Development DPD restricts excavation depth and double-storey basements
- Hampstead, Primrose Hill, Bloomsbury and Fitzrovia conservation areas remove most PD rights
- Mansard, dormer and L-shape lofts are common, pre-quote budgets vary by 25% on same scope
- Party Wall awards typical for any rear extension on Camden's terrace stock
- VAT at 20% applies to most Camden refurb/extension work, listed-building zero rating is narrow
Watch for basement DPD compliance, conservation-area materials, and tight quote comparison on Camden's competitive contractor market.
Frequently asked, Camden
How much is a loft conversion in Camden?
A typical Camden loft conversion costs £75,000–£140,000 on 2026 rates depending on type: a basic rear-dormer sits at the low end, an L-shape with ensuite around the middle, and a full mansard with planning + party wall costs at the top end. Add VAT and 8–12% fees on top.
Are basement extensions allowed in Camden?
Single-storey basements under the original footprint are generally permitted in Camden, subject to the Basement Development DPD. Double-storey or under-garden basements are heavily restricted, and excavation under listed buildings usually needs structural sign-off plus listed building consent.
Do I need a cost expert for a Camden extension?
Not legally, but on a £150k+ Camden extension a cost expert's pre-quote budget and monthly monitoring typically saves more than the fee. Independent cost expert work catches contractor over-claims, missing scope and prelims inflation that line-by-line quote review misses.
Know what your project should cost. Before you build it.
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