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 County Down?
In County Down, 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. Prices across Northern Ireland are typically 14% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for County Down. 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Access for materials on terraced streets
- Steelwork and propping of the existing house
- Total footprint and the amount of glazing
- Kitchen and flooring specification
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 County Down?
Before anything is built in County Down, 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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
Handled as part of most wraparound extensions:
- Building control completion
- Walls, roof and glazing
- Design and planning application
- Structural engineer’s design for steels and supports
- Underfloor heating option, electrics and plastering
- Removal of internal and external walls
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 County Down
Across Northern Ireland, bungalows and chalet bungalows are common, so loft conversions and rear extensions are popular projects.
Towns we cover in County Down include Bangor, Newtownards, Newry, Banbridge and Downpatrick.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about wraparound extensions in County Down
How much does a wraparound extension cost in County Down?
In County Down, 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.
Do I need planning permission for a wraparound extension in County Down?
In Northern Ireland a wraparound extension normally needs planning permission and building control approval.
Can we keep a separate living room?
Yes. Many clients keep the front room separate and open up only the back of the house.
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.
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.
Who approves a wraparound extension in County Down?
Planning matters in County Down go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.