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 Catford?
In Catford, 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. The guide for Catford reflects typical costs in London, roughly 30% above the UK-wide figure. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Party wall surveyor fees for one or both neighbours
- Steelwork and propping of the existing house
- Drainage changes
- Total footprint and the amount of glazing
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 Catford?
The approval route for Catford 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.
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
The work we manage on a wraparound extension:
- Underfloor heating option, electrics and plastering
- Removal of internal and external walls
- Structural engineer’s design for steels and supports
- Foundations and drainage
- Building control completion
- Walls, roof and glazing
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Catford
Space is at a premium in London, so homeowners often build out into the side return or up into the roof rather than move.
We work across Catford and neighbouring areas such as Forest Hill, Lewisham and Blackheath. Postcodes we cover in Catford include SE6.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about wraparound extensions in Catford
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.
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.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Catford?
In Catford, 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 Catford?
Yes. We build wraparound extensions across Catford, including postcodes SE6. Every project starts with a free home visit.
