Side return extensions in South Ockendon

Covering South Ockendon

South Ockendon is about 18 miles south-west of Chelmsford. We also cover Grays (3 miles to the south-east), Hornchurch and Dartford.

Homes in the East of England

Across the East of England, newer estates often have integral garages and room for rear extensions, while older towns have Victorian terraces and conservation areas that shape what can be built.

What does a side return extension involve?

A side return extension builds over the narrow passage that runs beside the back of many Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses, widening the kitchen or dining room by a metre or two. It is usually combined with a glazed or part-glazed roof so the deeper room still gets daylight.

Structural steel to remove the side wall
Glazed or solid roof with rooflights
Underfloor heating ready screed if wanted

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

What approvals does a side return extension need in England?

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 affect a side return extension?

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 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.
Drawings, approvals, written quote. We prepare the design, apply for the approvals it needs, and give you a fixed price in writing.
Construction and completion. One site lead co-ordinates every trade through to the building control certificate.

Your questions answered

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.

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

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 South Ockendon.