Side return extensions in Coulsdon

Covering Coulsdon

Alongside Coulsdon, we also cover Purley, Banstead (3 miles to the west) and Sutton.

Homes in London

Much of London’s housing is Victorian and Edwardian terraces, which is why side return extensions, rear dormers and mansards are so common. Many streets are in conservation areas, and several boroughs use Article 4 directions that remove some permitted development rights.

What goes into a side return extension?

Side returns are small in area but heavy in detail: party walls, a glazed roof, and steelwork to take out the original back wall. We design the roof for light and drainage, agree the party wall process early, and keep the work tidy because access is often through the house.

Party wall notices and surveyor liaison
Glazed or solid roof with rooflights
Underfloor heating ready screed if wanted

How much should I budget for a side return extension?

Guide prices for side return extensions, including VAT where it applies. Your fixed price is confirmed in writing after the survey.

Side return extensions	Guide price incl. VAT
Standard specification	£3,350 to £3,700 per m²
Good specification	£3,700 to £4,150 per m²
High specification	£4,150 to £4,550 per m²

How is a side return extension approved in Coulsdon?

In England we deal with the council’s planning team for permission or a lawful development certificate, with building control (the council or a registered building control approver) for inspections, and with neighbours under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 where it applies.

In England a single-storey rear extension can often go ahead under permitted development: up to 3 m deep on an attached house or 4 m on a detached one, no higher than 4 m, with eaves no higher than 3 m within 2 m of a boundary. Deeper extensions, up to 6 m or 8 m, need prior approval from the council first.

What should I think about before starting?

Access is often through the house, so we plan deliveries and protect floors.
Many terraces sit in conservation areas, where side extensions need planning permission.

From first call to completion

Send us the details. Give us a postcode, a rough idea of size and some photos, by phone, form or the guide price tool.
We visit and measure. A surveyor checks the house, the boundaries and the ground, and discusses what is realistic.
Drawings, approvals, written quote. We prepare the design, apply for the approvals it needs, and give you a fixed price in writing.
Build and hand over. Our teams build to the programme, building control inspects, and you get the completion paperwork at the end.

Questions about a side return extension in Coulsdon

How much does a side return extension cost?

Usually about £3,350 to £4,550 per square metre including VAT, which works out at around £35,000 to £55,000 for a typical side return before the kitchen.

Is a glazed roof too hot in summer?

Modern solar-control glass and a mix of glazed and solid roof keep it comfortable. We advise on the balance during design.

How do I get a price for side return extensions in Coulsdon?

Use the guide price tool for a ballpark figure, then book a visit for a fixed written price for the agreed specification.

Other towns nearby

Learn more about side return extensions, or see every project we cover in Coulsdon.