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 Chatham?
In Chatham, 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. Prices across the South East are typically 12% above the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Chatham. 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 |
What moves the price most:
- Access through the house for materials
- Steel beams and propping of the back addition
- Party wall surveyor fees
- Moving drains and soil stacks
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a side return extension in Chatham?
The approval route for Chatham is set by planning law 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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Building control sign-off
- Floor levelling, heating and electrics
- Party wall advice and notices
- Drawings and planning or permitted development check
- Glazed or solid roof with insulation
- Survey of party walls, drains and the existing back addition
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 Chatham
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
We work across Chatham and neighbouring areas such as Rochester, Gillingham and Strood. Postcodes we cover in Chatham include ME4.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about side return extensions in Chatham
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 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.
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 Chatham?
In Chatham, 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.
Who approves a side return extension in Chatham?
Planning matters in Chatham go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.