What is a wraparound extension?

A wraparound extension combines a side return and a rear extension into one L-shaped addition. It gives the largest possible ground floor, often creating an open-plan kitchen, dining and living space across the whole width of the house.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Acton?
In Acton, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,850–£4,150 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £80,000–£116,000. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for London, where labour and materials are typically about 30% above average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £57,000–£83,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £80,000–£116,000 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £111,000–£162,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,850–£4,150 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Party wall surveyor fees for one or both neighbours
- Drainage changes
- Steelwork and propping of the existing house
- Total footprint and the amount of glazing
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 wraparound extension in Acton?
The approval route for Acton is set by planning law in England. In England a wraparound extension combines side and rear elements, which normally takes it outside permitted development, so a householder planning application is made.
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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
Handled as part of most wraparound extensions:
- Walls, roof and glazing
- Underfloor heating option, electrics and plastering
- Party wall notices and surveyor liaison
- Structural engineer’s design for steels and supports
- Building control completion
- Design and planning application
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 12 to 18 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Acton
Many London boroughs have conservation areas and detailed design guides, so early design advice saves time at the planning stage.
We work across Acton and neighbouring areas such as Chiswick, Hammersmith and Willesden. Postcodes we cover in Acton include W3.
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
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about wraparound extensions in Acton
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Acton?
In Acton, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,850–£4,150 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £80,000–£116,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you build wraparound extensions in Acton?
Yes. We build wraparound extensions across Acton, including postcodes W3. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How long does it take to build?
Around 12 to 18 weeks on site after approvals. Design, planning and party wall matters usually take 3 to 4 months beforehand.
Does a wraparound extension need planning permission?
Almost always. Combining side and rear elements usually goes beyond permitted development limits, so a householder planning application is normally made.
What about the old back addition?
The side wall of the back addition is usually removed and replaced with a steel beam, so the old kitchen joins the new space.
