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 Crawley?
In Crawley, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,450–£3,600 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £68,500–£101,000. That range is adjusted for the South East, where domestic building work typically costs around 12% above the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £49,000–£72,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £68,500–£101,000 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £95,500–£140,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,450–£3,600 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Party wall surveyor fees for one or both neighbours
- Total footprint and the amount of glazing
- Access for materials on terraced streets
- Drainage changes
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 Crawley?
The approval route for Crawley 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Building control completion
- Foundations and drainage
- Removal of internal and external walls
- Structural engineer’s design for steels and supports
- Design and planning application
- Party wall notices and surveyor liaison
How long does it take?
Expect 12 to 18 weeks on site. Allow time beforehand for drawings and approvals, usually 3 to 4 months.
Building in Crawley
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
Our Crawley coverage includes postcode districts RH11 and RH77, and we also work in nearby places such as Horley, Horsham and East Grinstead.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about wraparound extensions in Crawley
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Crawley?
In Crawley, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,450–£3,600 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £68,500–£101,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you build wraparound extensions in Crawley?
Yes. We build wraparound extensions across Crawley, including postcodes RH11 and RH77. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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.
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.
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.
