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 Belfast?
In Belfast, a wraparound extension typically costs £1,900–£2,750 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £53,000–£77,000. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for Northern Ireland, where labour and materials are typically about 14% below average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £38,000–£55,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £53,000–£77,000 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £74,000–£107,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,900–£2,750 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Total footprint and the amount of glazing
- Steelwork and propping of the existing house
- Kitchen and flooring specification
- Access for materials on terraced streets
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 wraparound extension in Belfast?
Before anything is built in Belfast, we confirm which approvals apply in Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland a wraparound extension normally needs planning permission and building control approval.
Northern Ireland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls relies on agreement with the neighbour and common law, so we agree the arrangements in writing before work starts.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
On a typical wraparound extension we handle:
- Foundations and drainage
- Underfloor heating option, electrics and plastering
- Written agreement with neighbours on shared walls
- Walls, roof and glazing
- Building control completion
- Removal of internal and external walls
How long does it take?
Allow 12 to 18 weeks on site. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Belfast
Northern Ireland has many detached and semi-detached homes on generous plots, which suits single-storey rear extensions and garage conversions.
Our Belfast coverage includes postcode districts BT1, BT2, BT3 and BT4, and we also work in nearby places such as Newtownabbey, Lisburn and Newtownards.
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 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 sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about wraparound extensions in Belfast
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.
Do I need planning permission for a wraparound extension in Belfast?
In Northern Ireland a wraparound extension normally needs planning permission and building control approval.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Belfast?
In Belfast, a wraparound extension typically costs £1,900–£2,750 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £53,000–£77,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Is a wraparound worth it?
It gives the biggest ground-floor space without going upwards. Whether it adds value depends on your street and house, so we suggest checking local sale prices before committing.
Do you build wraparound extensions in Belfast?
Yes. We build wraparound extensions across Belfast, including postcodes BT1, BT2, BT3 and BT4. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Can we keep a separate living room?
Yes. Many clients keep the front room separate and open up only the back of the house.
