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 Cambridge?
In Cambridge, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,350–£3,400 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £66,000–£95,000. That range is adjusted for the East of England, where domestic building work typically costs around 6% above the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £47,000–£68,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £66,000–£95,000 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £91,500–£132,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,350–£3,400 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Kitchen and flooring specification
- Access for materials on terraced streets
- Steelwork and propping of the existing house
- Party wall surveyor fees for one or both neighbours
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 wraparound extension in Cambridge?
Here is how the rules work for a wraparound extension 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.
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:
- Removal of internal and external walls
- Party wall notices and surveyor liaison
- Design and planning application
- Foundations and drainage
- Walls, roof and glazing
- Building control completion
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 12 to 18 weeks on site. Design and approvals come first and typically take 3 to 4 months, depending on the approval route.
Building in Cambridge
Many towns in the East of England have estates built since the 1970s, where garage conversions and rear extensions are popular.
Cambridge sits in Cambridgeshire. We cover the whole of Cambridge, including postcodes CB5, CB21, CB22 and CB23.
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 sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about wraparound extensions in Cambridge
Will both neighbours be affected?
Usually only the neighbour on the side return side, but rear foundations near either boundary can trigger party wall notices.
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.
How long does a wraparound extension take in Cambridge?
Typically 12 to 18 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
Can we keep a separate living room?
Yes. Many clients keep the front room separate and open up only the back of the house.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Cambridge?
In Cambridge, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,350–£3,400 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £66,000–£95,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.