Side return extensions across West Midlands
If you live in West Midlands and want more space without moving, a side return extension is one of the most practical ways to get it. We handle the drawings, approvals and the build.
- Guide priceFrom £17,000 inc VAT
- PlanningOften permitted development; party wall notice usual
- Towns covered20
- Site visitFree, no obligation
Towns in West Midlands
Do I need planning permission in West Midlands?
In England a single-storey side return infill is often permitted development if it stays within the height limits and is no wider than half the width of the original house. Conservation areas, listed buildings and flats always need an application, and the boundary wall usually brings in the Party Wall Act.
The planning position for a specific West Midlands address depends on its history and any designations, which is why we check it at the first visit.
Building over or within 3 m of a public sewer needs the water company's consent, usually through a build-over agreement, before the foundations go in.
If the work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 m (sometimes 6 m) of a neighbour's building, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notice must be served before work starts: two months for work to a party wall, one month for new walls on the boundary and for excavations.
Applications are decided by the local planning authority (your district, borough or unitary council).
Guide prices for West Midlands
Labour and material costs vary across the UK, so for West Midlands we use our West Midlands factor (×0.97). The ranges include VAT and exclude design, structural and council fees.
Typical rates in West Midlands: £2,040 to £3,690 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8 m × 4.5 m 8 m² | £17,000 – £21,000 | £18,500 – £23,500 | £23,000 – £29,500 |
| 2 m × 5.5 m 11 m² | £22,000 – £27,000 | £25,500 – £32,500 | £32,000 – £41,000 |
| 2.2 m × 7 m 15 m² | £30,500 – £36,500 | £34,500 – £44,000 | £43,500 – £55,500 |
For a figure based on your own dimensions, use our guide-price tool.
Who a side return extension suits
- Narrow galley kitchens
- Victorian and Edwardian terraces with a rear outrigger
- Homes where the garden is too small to lose much depth
Extensions in and around West Midlands
Towns we cover in West Midlands include Birmingham, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Dudley, Walsall, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield, West Bromwich. The West Midlands has a large stock of 1930s and post-war semi-detached houses, which are well suited to rear, side and over-garage extensions, plus Victorian terraces in the older inner areas.
From first visit to completion
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
Our team builds the extension, keeps you updated weekly and finishes with building control sign-off.
Your questions about a side return extension in West Midlands
Can I see a price before committing to anything?
Yes. The guide prices on this page are adjusted for West Midlands, and the guide-price tool gives a range for your own size. After the survey you get a written price before anything is agreed.
Will my neighbours in West Midlands be involved?
If a planning application or prior approval is needed, the council notifies neighbours. If the work is on or near a shared boundary, party wall notices may also be needed.
Do I need building regulations approval in West Midlands?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
How much does a side return extension cost?
Our guide range is about £2,040 to £3,690 per m² including VAT, so a typical 2 m × 5.5 m infill lands around £25,500 to £32,500 at standard spec in West Midlands, more in London.
Do side return extensions need planning permission?
In England many single-storey side returns fit within permitted development if they stay within the height limits and are no wider than half the width of the original house. Conservation areas, listed buildings and flats need an application. Other UK nations have their own rules, which we check.
Book a free site visit in West Midlands
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.