How Much Does A Side Return Extension Cost?

Side Return Extension Costs: Budgeting, Planning & Cost-Saving Tips

If you live in a busy area or city, a side return extension may be a practical way to upgrade your living space. However, to plan for it well, you must know how much it could cost you. Explore your options now.
In this Price Guide we will talk about:

1. Is A Side Return Extension Worth the Investment?
2. Simple Cost Breakdown: Side Return Extension
3. Builder Labour Costs: Side Return Extension
4. Hidden Costs: Potential Planning Permissions and Regs
5. Cost-Saving Tips: Save Money on Your Side Return Extension
6. Find Available Side Return Builders on MyBuilder Today
7. Common Questions

Is A Side Return Extension Worth the Investment?

What is a side return extension? It’s where homeowners convert the narrow passageway alongside the house into usable living space. It is seen as a good way to transform a small, terraced or semi-detached home where space is limited.

Read the key benefits of a side return extension here:
Maximises living space: Instead of losing valuable garden space to a rear extension, a side return makes use of an underutilised alleyway, creating extra square metres without compromising too much outdoor area.

Enhances your natural light: With popular design choices such as glass roofs, skylights, or bi-fold doors, these extensions allow daylight to flood into the property, creating bright, airy interiors.

Adds value to the property: In areas like busy cities, a side return extension can increase property value significantly.
Creates open-plan living: Many homeowners use the opportunity to redesign their layout into a modern open-plan kitchen and dining area, while getting better access to the outdoor space.

If you are considering getting a side return extension, it may be a good idea to talk to a tradesperson in your area. It’s easy to get in touch with one from the comfort of your home with MyBuilder. Click here to post your job on MyBuilder and connect with available tradespeople.

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Simple Cost Overview: Side Return Extension

The cost of your new side return extension can vary due to several factors, including location, design, and materials.
Generally, the cost can range from £1,500 to £4,500 per square metre. Prices in busier areas tend to be at the higher end of this scale due to increased labour and logistics costs. It also depends on the type of house you live in.

Here is a quick table breaking down the cost ranges for different housing types:

Extension Type	Cost Range
Small Single-Storey	£65,000 – £120,000
Larger Double-Storey	£150,000 – £200,000+
High-End Central Projects	£70,000 – £250,000

When planning a side return extension, it's essential to understand the different factors that can affect the cost.
Take a look at the different aspects that influence the cost of a side return extension:

Materials: The choice of materials, such as brick, glass, and steel.

Labour: Fees for builders and architects.

Permits: Costs for necessary permits and approvals for construction.

Design Services: Fees for architectural design are essential if you want a customised space.

Structural Work: The complexity of tasks like foundation laying and support beams can influence costs.

Interior Finishing: Spending on features like flooring, kitchen costs, and fixtures.

Builder Labour Costs: Side Return Extension

When planning a side return extension, it’s important to budget not only for the construction itself, but also for the range of professional services required to ensure the project runs smoothly and complies with regulations.

These costs can account for 15–25% of the overall project budget.

Take a look at this quick breakdown of typical labour fees:

Architect: Usually 7–15% of the total construction cost for a £100,000 project, expect £7,000 – £15,000. Services include initial design, planning submissions, and detailed construction drawings.

Structural Engineer: Required for calculating load-bearing steelwork and ensuring the structure is safe. This is typically £750 – £1,500 (or around £100/hour).

Building Regulations Approval: These are needed to ensure the extension meets safety and efficiency standards. Fees range from £250 – £550 for plan checks, plus £600 – £1,000 for inspections.

Party Wall Surveyor: Essential if the extension affects a shared wall with your neighbour. Costs are typically £900 – £1,500 per surveyor, but disputes can increase this to £2,000+.

If you are not sure what professionals you need for your specific project, you can post your job on MyBuilder and get advice. Make sure you get a complete overview of the costs by acquiring multiple quotes from available tradespeople. Click here to find extension builders near you on MyBuilder.

Hidden Costs: Potential Planning Permissions and Regs

When planning a side return extension, it’s essential to understand the role of planning permissions and building regulations. These requirements are sometimes overlooked but can introduce unexpected costs and delays if not managed properly.

Because the approval process varies depending on your local authority, property type, and the scope of the extension, expenses can quickly add up.

Planning Application Fee: Applying for planning permission in England costs approximately £206 for householder applications. This fee covers the processing of your application by the local council.

Building Regulations Approval: The cost for building regulations approval typically ranges from £250 – £550 for plan checks, with additional inspection fees of £600 – £1,000. Compliance ensures your extension meets safety and construction standards.

MyBuilder Tip: Ensure thorough planning and allow extra time for acquiring permissions as this can significantly impact the overall timeline of your project. Here is a more detailed breakdown of planning permission costs if you need it.

Cost-Saving Tips: Save Money on Your Side Return Extension

A side return extension requires careful planning and informed decision-making. By finding opportunities to save without compromising on building standards, you can make a significant difference to your final budget.

Here are some cost-saving tips for your side return extension:

• Reuse existing materials where possible to reduce new material costs.
• Speak with several builders to obtain competitive quotes on labour.
• Schedule construction during off-peak seasons to take advantage of lower rates.
• Purchase materials from local suppliers to reduce transportation and logistics expenses.

Transform Your Home with a Side Return Extension: Find Available Builders on MyBuilder

Curious about the side return extension cost for your home? MyBuilder makes it easy to connect with extension builders near you, who can offer advice on your next steps. Simply post your job today.

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FAQ: Common Questions Readers Ask About Side Return Extension Costs

What factors influence the overall cost of a side return extension?

Several factors influence the overall cost of a side return extension, including size and complexity of the design, quality of materials, and labour costs. Additional considerations include planning permissions, structural changes like removing load-bearing walls, and any special features such as bi-folding doors or skylights.

What are the steps involved in planning and executing a side return extension?

The process of building a side return extension for your home typically begins with design and planning, including arranging architectural drawings and submitting planning permission applications if necessary. Once approved, you’ll move on to hiring a contractor, securing materials, and beginning construction. Throughout the build, regular inspections ensure everything complies with building regulations. Finally, you’ll complete any interior finishes or landscaping required.

How can I budget effectively for a side return extension project?

To budget effectively, start by defining the scope and scale of your project. Get detailed estimates from multiple contractors, factor in an extra 10–15% contingency for unforeseen expenses, and track all costs against your initial estimates. Consider cost-saving measures like using standard materials and opting for a design-and-build service to streamline planning and execution.

What are the differences between a narrow side return extension and a regular one, in terms of cost and space?

A narrow side return extension usually costs less because it is smaller, but it might also add less overall space, often suited for extending kitchens or living areas. In contrast, a regular side return extension can offer more comprehensive space for dining or family rooms but at a higher cost due to more extensive construction and finishing work.