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 Durham?
In Durham, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,000–£2,900 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 28 m² project that is roughly £56,000–£81,000. Prices across the North East are typically 10% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Durham. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (20 m²) | £40,000–£58,000 |
| Typical project (28 m²) | £56,000–£81,000 |
| Larger project (39 m²) | £78,000–£113,000 |
| Rate per m² | £2,000–£2,900 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Steelwork and propping of the existing house
- Drainage changes
- Total footprint and the amount of glazing
- Party wall surveyor fees for one or both neighbours
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 Durham?
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.
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:
- Party wall notices and surveyor liaison
- Removal of internal and external walls
- Building control completion
- Walls, roof and glazing
- Underfloor heating option, electrics and plastering
- Structural engineer’s design for steels and supports
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 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 Durham
Across the North East, colliery-era terraces and newer estates sit side by side, so the right project depends on the house type.
Durham sits in County Durham. We cover the whole of Durham, including postcodes DH1.
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 handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about wraparound extensions in Durham
How long does a wraparound extension take in Durham?
Typically 12 to 18 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
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 Durham?
In Durham, a wraparound extension typically costs £2,000–£2,900 per m² of floor area, including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 28 m² project comes to roughly £56,000–£81,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Can we keep a separate living room?
Yes. Many clients keep the front room separate and open up only the back of the house.
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.
