Covering Maidstone
Alongside Maidstone, we also cover Chatham (8 miles to the north), Rochester and Gillingham.
Homes in the South East
The South East has a lot of 1930s and post-war semi-detached housing, well suited to rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions, alongside period properties in conservation areas that need a more careful design.
What is included in a side return extension in Maidstone?
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
- Drainage and new gully positions
- Plastering and making good to the old house
How much should I budget for a side return extension?
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 |
Planning and building rules in Maidstone
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 can change the price or programme?
- Access is often through the house, so we plan deliveries and protect floors.
- Glazed roofs need careful detailing against the neighbour’s wall.
What happens after I enquire?
- Tell us about the project. Call, use the guide price tool or send the form with a few photos and a postcode.
- Free site visit. We measure up, look at access, drains and the structure, and talk through options and budget.
- Price and paperwork. The design is priced line by line, and we submit the planning and building control applications.
- We build it. Work follows an agreed programme, with inspections at each stage and a final sign-off.
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.
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.
Can you visit a house in Maidstone to quote?
Yes. After a short call we arrange a site visit to measure up and agree what the design needs to do, then send a written price.
Side return extensions near Maidstone
- Side return extensions in Chatham
- Side return extensions in Rochester
- Side return extensions in Gillingham
- Side return extensions in Strood
Learn more about side return extensions, or see every project we cover in Maidstone.

