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 Exmouth?
In Exmouth, a side return extension typically costs £2,350–£3,350 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 12 m² project that is roughly £28,000–£40,000. Prices in the South West sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Exmouth reflects that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (8 m²) | £19,000–£27,000 |
| Typical project (12 m²) | £28,000–£40,000 |
| Larger project (17 m²) | £40,000–£57,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,350–£3,350 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Steel beams and propping of the back addition
- Length of the side return
- Party wall surveyor fees
- Glazed roof specification
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a side return extension in Exmouth?
The approval route for Exmouth 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.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Glazed or solid roof with insulation
- Building control sign-off
- Steel beams to remove the side wall
- Party wall advice and notices
- 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. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Exmouth
The South West mixes stone and render cottages with post-war and newer estates, and local materials matter more here when matching an extension.
Exmouth sits in Devon, about 9 miles south-east of Exeter. We cover the whole of Exmouth, including postcodes EX8.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about side return extensions in Exmouth
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.
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 much does a side return extension cost in Exmouth?
In Exmouth, a side return extension typically costs £2,350–£3,350 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 12 m² project comes to roughly £28,000–£40,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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.
How long does a side return extension take in Exmouth?
Typically 10 to 14 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.