What is a side return extension?
A side return extension fills the narrow passage that runs alongside the back addition of many Victorian and Edwardian terraced houses. It widens a galley kitchen into a proper kitchen-diner, usually with a sloping glazed roof to keep the room bright.
How much does a side return extension cost in Airdrie?
In Airdrie, a side return extension typically costs £2,250–£3,200 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 12 m² project that is roughly £27,000–£38,500. Building costs in Scotland are close to the UK average, so the figures for Airdrie are close to our national guide. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (8 m²) | £18,000–£25,500 |
| Typical project (12 m²) | £27,000–£38,500 |
| Larger project (17 m²) | £38,000–£54,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,250–£3,200 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Steel beams and propping of the back addition
- Length of the side return
- Agreements with neighbours on shared walls
- Moving drains and soil stacks
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a side return extension in Airdrie?
Here is how the rules work for a side return extension in Scotland. In Scotland a single-storey infill beside a back addition can be permitted development within the height and boundary limits, but not in a conservation area. A building warrant is needed before work starts.
Scotland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls is governed by your title deeds, the Tenements (Scotland) Act 2004 for flats, and common law, so we agree arrangements with neighbours in writing before work starts.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
Handled as part of most side return extensions:
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- Glazed or solid roof with insulation
- Drawings and planning or permitted development check
- Steel beams to remove the side wall
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- Foundations and drainage, including any build-over agreement
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 10 to 14 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Airdrie
In Scotland, bungalows and one-and-a-half-storey homes are common, so dormer conversions are a popular way to add bedrooms.
If your home is in Airdrie or close by in Coatbridge, Bellshill and Motherwell, a free home visit is the first step.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about side return extensions in Airdrie
Can I stay in the house?
Usually, though the kitchen will be out of action for several weeks. We plan a temporary kitchen area where possible.
How much does a side return extension cost in Airdrie?
In Airdrie, a side return extension typically costs £2,250–£3,200 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 12 m² project comes to roughly £27,000–£38,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
How do you get materials in?
Mid-terrace houses often have no rear access, so materials come through the house. We protect floors and plan deliveries carefully.
How much space does a side return add?
Typically 1.5 to 2.5 metres of width along the back addition. It often turns a narrow galley kitchen into a family kitchen-diner.
Who approves a side return extension in Airdrie?
Planning matters in Airdrie go to the council covering your address, and the work needs a building warrant. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
Do I need planning permission for a side return extension in Airdrie?
In Scotland a single-storey infill beside a back addition can be permitted development within the height and boundary limits, but not in a conservation area. A building warrant is needed before work starts.