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 Dorset?
In Dorset, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,250–£3,250 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £63,000–£91,000. Building costs in the South West are close to the UK average, so the figures for Dorset are close to our national guide. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £45,000–£65,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £63,000–£91,000 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £88,000–£127,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,250–£3,250 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Kitchen and flooring specification
- Total footprint and the amount of glazing
- Party wall surveyor fees for one or both neighbours
- Access for materials on terraced streets
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a wraparound extension in Dorset?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Removal of internal and external walls
- Walls, roof and glazing
- Design and planning application
- Party wall notices and surveyor liaison
- Foundations and drainage
- Underfloor heating option, electrics and plastering
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 Dorset
The South West mixes stone and render cottages with post-war and newer estates, and local materials matter more here when matching an extension.
Towns we cover in Dorset include Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth and Christchurch.
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
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 Dorset
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Dorset?
In Dorset, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,250–£3,250 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £63,000–£91,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Who approves a wraparound extension in Dorset?
Planning matters in Dorset go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
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.
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.