Side return extensions in Elgin: design, approvals and build
We design and build side return extensions for houses in Elgin, with a written price once the survey and design are done and one point of contact throughout.
- Guide price in ElginFrom £17,500 inc VAT
- PlanningScottish householder rules; building warrant needed
- Build time10–14 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsIV30
Local to Elgin
Postcode districts we cover around Elgin include IV30. Nearby, we also take on projects in Lossiemouth (5 miles), Forres (11 miles), Buckie (15 miles).
Nairn, in Highlands and Islands, is roughly 21 miles from Elgin and also on our list. Across Scotland, extensions follow Scottish planning and building standards, including the building warrant process, which we build into the programme from the start.
Planning rules that apply in Elgin
In Scotland, householder permitted development rules (Class 1A for single-storey ground-floor extensions and Class 1B for extensions of more than one storey) allow some smaller extensions without a planning application, within limits on depth, height and distance from the boundary. Conservation areas and listed buildings are more restricted. Separately, almost every extension needs a building warrant from the council before work starts.
The planning position for a specific Elgin address depends on its history and any designations, which is why we check it at the first visit.
Building close to a public sewer needs the agreement of Scottish Water, which we check during design.
Scotland has no Party Wall Act. Where work affects a shared wall or a neighbour's land, we agree access, protection and making good with your neighbour in writing before work starts.
Applications are decided by your council as planning authority.
Included in a typical project
- Survey of the outrigger, boundary wall and drainage
- Design to keep daylight in the middle of the house
- Removal of the side wall and new steelwork
- Glazed, sloping or flat roof with rooflights
- Kitchen-ready shell or full finish
What should I budget for a side return extension in Elgin?
These guide figures apply our Scotland adjustment (×0.98) to national rates. They include VAT at 20% and cover the build itself; design and council fees are listed separately.
Typical rates in Elgin: £2,060 to £3,720 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8 m × 4.5 m 8 m² | £17,500 – £21,000 | £18,500 – £24,000 | £23,500 – £30,000 |
| 2 m × 5.5 m 11 m² | £22,500 – £27,000 | £25,500 – £32,500 | £32,000 – £41,000 |
| 2.2 m × 7 m 15 m² | £30,500 – £37,000 | £35,000 – £44,500 | £44,000 – £56,000 |
For a figure based on your own dimensions, use our guide-price tool.
Our process, step by step
Site visits are free and there is no obligation. Where drawings are needed, the design stage is priced in writing before it starts.
Free site visit
A designer visits, takes measurements and photos, and discusses layouts, budget and timing with you.
Design and approvals
Drawings are prepared and agreed with you, then submitted for the right planning route and building regulations approval.
Fixed written price
With the design and specification agreed, you get a fixed written price and a start date.
Build and sign-off
The build is managed from start to finish, inspected at each stage and signed off on completion.
Side return extension questions answered
How long does a side return extension take to build in Elgin?
On site, typically 10 to 14 weeks once approvals are in place. Before that, allow 6–12 weeks design and approvals.
Will my neighbours in Elgin be involved?
If a planning application is needed, the council notifies neighbours. Where work is close to a shared boundary, we agree access and protection with them in writing.
Who do I contract with for a side return extension in Elgin?
Your contract is with S&K Property Investments and Improvement Ltd, which designs and manages the project and the build teams who carry it out.
Will the kitchen be darker?
Not if the roof is designed well. A glazed roof or a line of rooflights along the boundary usually makes the room brighter than before.
How much does a side return extension cost?
Our guide range is about £2,060 to £3,720 per m² including VAT, so a typical 2 m × 5.5 m infill lands around £25,500 to £32,500 at standard spec in Elgin, more in London.
Book a free site visit in Elgin
We will measure up, check the planning position and give you honest guide figures.
- Free, no-obligation site visit
- Planning route checked before you spend on drawings
- Written price once the design is agreed
- Building control sign-off at the end
Prefer to talk? Call 0800 088 6341 or .
Book a free site visit
Tell us a little about the project and we will arrange a time.