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 Gillingham?
In Gillingham, 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. Building costs in the South East run about 12% above the UK average, and the figures for Gillingham are adjusted to reflect that. 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 |
What moves the price most:
- Party wall surveyor fees for one or both neighbours
- Total footprint and the amount of glazing
- Kitchen and flooring specification
- Steelwork and propping of the existing house
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a wraparound extension in Gillingham?
Before anything is built in Gillingham, we confirm which approvals apply 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
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Party wall notices and surveyor liaison
- Design and planning application
- Structural engineer’s design for steels and supports
- Removal of internal and external walls
- Building control completion
- Underfloor heating option, electrics and plastering
How long does it take?
Expect 12 to 18 weeks on site. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Gillingham
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
Our Gillingham coverage includes postcode districts ME7, and we also work in nearby places such as Chatham, Rochester and Strood.
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 fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed 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 Gillingham
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.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Gillingham?
In Gillingham, 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.
How long does a wraparound extension take in Gillingham?
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.
