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 Faversham?
In Faversham, 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 Faversham 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:
- Steel beams and propping of the back addition
- Length of the side return
- Moving drains and soil stacks
- Party wall surveyor fees
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 Faversham?
Approvals for a side return extension in Faversham follow the rules for 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:
- Survey of party walls, drains and the existing back addition
- Steel beams to remove the side wall
- Party wall advice and notices
- Drawings and planning or permitted development check
- Glazed or solid roof with insulation
- Floor levelling, heating and electrics
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 Faversham
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.
Our Faversham coverage includes postcode districts ME13, and we also work in nearby places such as Whitstable, Sittingbourne and Canterbury.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 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 Faversham
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 does a side return extension cost in Faversham?
In Faversham, 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 Faversham?
Planning matters in Faversham go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
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.