Side return extensions · Richmond

Side return extensions in Richmond

From the first site visit to the final building control sign-off, we manage side return extensions in Richmond so you only have one company to deal with.

Covering Richmond

Richmond is about 8 miles west of London. We also cover Isleworth (2 miles to the north-west), Hounslow and Barnes.

Homes in London

Terraced houses dominate many London neighbourhoods, so most projects involve shared walls, narrow access and a party wall process. Conservation areas are widespread, and some boroughs have their own mansard and basement guidance.

What do you get with 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.

  • Structural steel to remove the side wall
  • Drainage and new gully positions
  • Plastering and making good to the old house

What will a side return extension cost?

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 extensionsGuide 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 Richmond?

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 Richmond homeowners check first?

  • 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

  1. Tell us about the project. Call, use the guide price tool or send the form with a few photos and a postcode.
  2. Free site visit. We measure up, look at access, drains and the structure, and talk through options and budget.
  3. Design and fixed price. You get drawings and a written price for the agreed specification before anything is ordered.
  4. 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

Does a side return need planning permission?

In England it can be permitted development if it is single storey, no higher than 4 m and no wider than half the original house. Conservation areas are the main exception.

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.

Can you visit a house in Richmond 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.

Also covering

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

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