Wells, Somerset
Side return extension in Wells
For homes in Wells, 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.
We cover Wells (BA5) as part of our Somerset work. In Wells we check the boundary line and the neighbour's gutter before drawing a side return, because a few centimetres decide whether the wall goes on or beside the boundary.
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 Wells?
Guide prices for a side return extension in Wells start from our South West England rate of £2,390–£3,950 per square metre, including VAT. South West prices run slightly above our West Midlands baseline; natural stone to match the house is the main variable.
| Size | Guide price inc VAT |
|---|---|
| 2 m wide × 6 m deep (12 m²) | £28,500–£47,500 |
| 2.5 m wide × 7 m deep (17.5 m²) | £42,000–£69,000 |
These are guide ranges; the written quote after the survey is the figure that counts.
Do you need planning permission for a side return extension in Wells?
Whether your side return extension in Wells needs a planning application depends on its size, your house and any local restrictions.
In England the side part of a side return or wraparound must meet the side-extension rules (one storey, under 4 metres high, no more than half the width of the original house), and those rights do not apply on designated land. Because a wraparound combines a side and a rear extension, many need householder planning permission.
Because rear extensions often sit on or near the boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 usually applies in England. Notices go out one or two months before work depending on the type of work, and a surveyor's award is only needed if a neighbour does not consent.
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 Wells like to extend?
Wells has Victorian terraces nearer the centre and post-war semis on the edges. Sloping gardens are frequent, which affects floor levels and steps down to the patio.
How a side return extension in Wells comes together
Free site visit
We measure the house and garden, look at the back wall, drainage and boundaries, and talk through what you want from the space.
Options and costs
We draw layout options and price each one, so the budget shapes the design rather than surprising you later.
Paperwork handled
Planning, prior approval or permitted development, Building Regulations approval, structural design and party wall notices are all handled by us.
Fixed price and build
A written price for the agreed design, a start date and a named contact through the build, ending with the building control completion certificate.
Side return extensions near Wells
Close by, we work in Shepton Mallet, about 4.6 miles away, and Street, about 7.0 miles away.
- Side return extension in Shepton Mallet
- Side return extension in Street
- Side return extension in Midsomer Norton
- Side return extension in Frome
- Side return extension in Bishopsworth
Other work in Wells:
FAQ
Side return extension questions in Wells
What postcode areas do you cover around Wells?
Including BA5, and the surrounding Somerset area.
Will I need a structural engineer?
Yes for the beam over the new opening and usually the foundations; we arrange them and their calculations go to building control.
Glass roof or solid roof with rooflights?
A glass roof gives the most light; a solid roof with long rooflights is warmer and quieter in rain. Both work.
Is the site visit in Wells free?
Yes. We visit, measure up and talk through the options with no cost and no obligation.
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.