Side return extensions in Exeter

Covering Exeter

Exeter is about 36 miles north-east of Plymouth. We also cover Exmouth (9 miles to the south-east), Tiverton and Newton Abbot.

Homes in the South West

In the South West, matching local stone, render or slate is often the main design question, and conservation areas and listed buildings are common in historic towns.

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.

Glazed or solid roof with rooflights
Drainage and new gully positions
Plastering and making good to the old house

How much should I budget for a side return extension?

Typical ranges for side return extensions. Ground conditions, access and specification move the final figure, which we fix in writing before work starts.

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

Do you need permission for a side return extension in Exeter?

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.

What can change the price or programme?

Most side returns touch a shared boundary, so the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 usually applies in England and Wales.
Access is often through the house, so we plan deliveries and protect floors.

What are the steps?

Tell us about the project. Call, use the guide price tool or send the form with a few photos and a postcode.
We visit and measure. A surveyor checks the house, the boundaries and the ground, and discusses what is realistic.
Design and fixed price. You get drawings and a written price for the agreed specification before anything is ordered.
Build and hand over. Our teams build to the programme, building control inspects, and you get the completion paperwork at the end.

Side return extensions: common questions

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 Exeter?

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 Exeter.