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 Finchley?
In Finchley, 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. Building costs in London run about 30% above the UK average, and the figures for Finchley are adjusted to reflect that. 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 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Drainage changes
- Steelwork and propping of the existing house
- Access for materials on terraced streets
- Party wall surveyor fees for one or both neighbours
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a wraparound extension in Finchley?
Here is how the rules work for a wraparound extension 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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
On a typical wraparound extension we handle:
- Walls, roof and glazing
- Removal of internal and external walls
- Building control completion
- Underfloor heating option, electrics and plastering
- Party wall notices and surveyor liaison
- Structural engineer’s design for steels and supports
How long does it take?
Allow 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 Finchley
Many London boroughs have conservation areas and detailed design guides, so early design advice saves time at the planning stage.
We work across Finchley and neighbouring areas such as Hendon, Golders Green and Muswell Hill. Postcodes we cover in Finchley include N3.
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
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 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 Finchley
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 Finchley?
In Finchley, 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.
How long does a wraparound extension take in Finchley?
Typically 12 to 18 weeks on site. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
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.
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.
