Covering Guildford
Our coverage around Guildford (GU1) also includes Godalming, Woking and Aldershot.
Homes in the South East
Housing across the South East mixes inter-war semis, post-war estates and older cottages in villages and market towns, so rear and side extensions, hip-to-gable lofts and garage conversions all come up regularly.
What is 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
- Structural steel to remove the side wall
- Plastering and making good to the old house
What will a side return extension cost?
Indicative costs for side return extensions. London and the South East usually sit towards the top of each range.
| 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 Guildford?
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.
- Many terraces sit in conservation areas, where side extensions need planning permission.
From first call to completion
- Start with a conversation. A short call or the online form is enough for us to understand what you want to build.
- Free site visit. We measure up, look at access, drains and the structure, and talk through options and budget.
- Design and fixed price. You get drawings and a written price for the agreed specification before anything is ordered.
- Construction and completion. One site lead co-ordinates every trade through to the building control certificate.
Side return extensions: common questions
Will I need a party wall agreement?
Most likely, because the new wall usually sits on or near the boundary. We serve the notices and work with your neighbour’s surveyor if one is appointed.
How long does a side return take?
About 10 to 14 weeks on site.
Do you work in Guildford?
Yes. Guildford is within our coverage for side return extensions, along with nearby Godalming and Woking.
Also covering
- Side return extensions in Godalming
- Side return extensions in Woking
- Side return extensions in Aldershot
- Side return extensions in Farnborough
Learn more about side return extensions, or see every project we cover in Guildford.