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 Camberley?
In Camberley, a side return extension typically costs £2,600–£3,700 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 12 m² project that is roughly £31,000–£44,500. The guide for Camberley reflects typical costs in the South East, roughly 12% above the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (8 m²) | £21,000–£29,500 |
| Typical project (12 m²) | £31,000–£44,500 |
| Larger project (17 m²) | £44,000–£63,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,600–£3,700 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Party wall surveyor fees
- Moving drains and soil stacks
- Steel beams and propping of the back addition
- Glazed roof specification
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 Camberley?
Here is how the rules work for a side return extension in England. In England a side return infill is treated as a side extension. It may be permitted development if it is single-storey, no more than 4 metres high and no wider than half the original house, but not in a conservation area. Because side returns sit on the boundary, party wall notices are almost always needed.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served 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
The work we manage on a side return extension:
- Survey of party walls, drains and the existing back addition
- Party wall advice and notices
- Steel beams to remove the side wall
- Glazed or solid roof with insulation
- Floor levelling, heating and electrics
- Foundations and drainage, including any build-over agreement
How long does it take?
Expect 10 to 14 weeks on site. Design and approvals come first and typically take 3 to 4 months, depending on the approval route.
Building in Camberley
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
From GU15 outwards, we take on projects throughout Camberley and the surrounding parts of Surrey.
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 in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about side return extensions in Camberley
Who approves a side return extension in Camberley?
Planning matters in Camberley go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
Is a glass roof too hot or cold?
Modern solar-control double or triple glazing reduces glare and heat loss. Building regulations also limit how much glazing you can have unless the design shows it performs well enough.
How much does a side return extension cost in Camberley?
In Camberley, a side return extension typically costs £2,600–£3,700 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 12 m² project comes to roughly £31,000–£44,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Will I need a party wall agreement?
Almost certainly in England and Wales, because side returns sit on or near the boundary. Notices must be served before work starts, and a party wall surveyor may be appointed if the neighbour does not consent.
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.