Chafford Hundred, Essex
Side return extension in Chafford Hundred
For homes in Chafford Hundred, a side return extension is often the simplest way to gain space without moving. Infilling the narrow passage beside a Victorian or Edwardian back addition. We take it from survey to completion certificate.
Chafford Hundred sits in Essex, with postcode districts including RM15, RM17 and RM20. Side returns suit the Victorian and Edwardian terraces found across parts of Essex, where the kitchen sits in a narrow back addition.
Book a free site visit
Tell us about the house and we'll call to arrange a free, no-obligation visit.
How much does a side return extension cost in Chafford Hundred?
In Chafford Hundred, our guide for a side return extension is £2,440–£4,030 per square metre including VAT for a standard specification. East of England prices run slightly above our West Midlands baseline; clay soils near trees are the main foundation variable.
| Size | Guide price inc VAT |
|---|---|
| 2 m wide × 6 m deep (12 m²) | £29,500–£48,500 |
| 2.5 m wide × 7 m deep (17.5 m²) | £42,500–£70,500 |
Ground conditions, glazing, the roof and how far the house is opened up move the final figure within the range.
Do you need planning permission for a side return extension in Chafford Hundred?
Whether your side return extension in Chafford Hundred needs a planning application depends on its size, your house and any local restrictions.
Side return infills and the side leg of a wraparound are treated as side extensions in England: single-storey, no more than 4 metres high and no wider than half the original house. They are not permitted development in conservation areas, National Parks or National Landscapes, and a joined wraparound often needs a planning application because the side and rear rules apply together.
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies in England: you serve notice two months before work to a shared wall, and one month before digging foundations within 3 metres (or 6 metres for deeper foundations) of a neighbour's building. Neighbours can agree in writing; if they dissent, surveyors agree an award.
Conservation areas, National Parks, National Landscapes and the Broads restrict permitted development, and listed buildings always need listed building consent. At the first visit we measure what is there now and tell you which route fits: permitted development, prior approval or a planning application.
What are homes in Chafford Hundred like to extend?
Post-war semis and newer estates are typical of Chafford Hundred, and many have room for a full-width extension. Shrinkable clay is common in the East of England, so foundations near trees and hedges are designed to NHBC-style depth guidance.
How a side return extension in Chafford Hundred comes together
Survey visit
We visit free of charge, measure up, check access, drainage and neighbours' extensions, and note what you want the room to do.
Design and guide price
Two or three layout options with a guide price for each, so you choose the design knowing what it costs.
Approvals
Permitted development check, prior approval or planning application, then Building Regulations drawings and structural calculations, plus party wall notices where they apply.
Build and sign-off
We build to the approved drawings with regular updates, then hand over the building control completion certificate and any guarantees from suppliers.
Side return extensions near Chafford Hundred
Neighbouring places we cover include South Ockendon (1.4 miles) and Grays (1.6 miles).
- Side return extension in South Ockendon
- Side return extension in Grays
- Side return extension in Swanscombe
- Side return extension in Tilbury
- Side return extension in Dartford
Other work in Chafford Hundred:
FAQ
Side return extension questions in Chafford Hundred
How much does a side return extension cost in Chafford Hundred?
As a guide, £2,440–£4,030 per square metre including VAT for a standard specification. For example, 2 m wide × 6 m deep (12 m²): about £29,500–£48,500 at that rate. Your written price follows the survey.
Is the site visit in Chafford Hundred free?
Yes. We visit, measure up and talk through the options with no cost and no obligation.
How much space does a side return add?
Typically 8 to 18 square metres, enough to turn a galley kitchen into a kitchen-diner with an island.
Can I live at home while the extension is built?
Usually yes. Most of the work is outside until the back wall is opened near the end, and that stage is screened off.
Can I get a price without a visit?
Our online guide-price tool gives a range in a couple of minutes. A written price needs a survey.
Do I need a party wall agreement?
In England, usually yes if the extension is on or near a shared boundary or the foundations are close to a neighbour's building. We serve the notices.