Dorchester, Dorset
Wraparound extension in Dorchester
For homes in Dorchester, a wraparound extension is often the simplest way to gain space without moving. An L-shaped extension that fills the side return and runs across the back. We take it from survey to completion certificate.
Dorchester sits in Dorset, with postcode districts including DT1. Wraparounds are the natural next step for the end-of-terrace and Victorian houses in Dorset where a side return alone would leave the room too narrow.
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 wraparound extension cost in Dorchester?
For Dorchester we work from the South West England rate: £2,290–£3,740 per square metre of new floor, including VAT, standard specification. 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 |
|---|---|
| L-shaped, about 22 m² of new floor | £50,500–£82,500 |
| L-shaped, about 30 m² of new floor | £68,500–£112,500 |
These are guide ranges; the written quote after the survey is the figure that counts.
Do you need planning permission for a wraparound extension in Dorchester?
Planning for a wraparound extension in Dorchester follows the English householder rules.
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. We check your house's planning history and any conservation area before drawing, so the route is clear before you spend on plans.
What are homes in Dorchester like to extend?
Stone-built and rendered houses are common around Dorchester, so matching the walling is a design decision in its own right: natural stone, reconstituted stone or a render finish across old and new.
How a wraparound extension in Dorchester 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.
Paperwork handled
Planning, prior approval or permitted development, Building Regulations approval, structural design and party wall notices are all handled by us.
Written price, then build
Once the design and approvals are in place, you get a fixed written price and programme, and we build through to sign-off.
Wraparound extensions near Dorchester
Close by, we work in Weymouth, about 7.2 miles away, and Portland, about 10.3 miles away.
- Wraparound extension in Weymouth
- Wraparound extension in Portland
- Wraparound extension in Bridport
- Wraparound extension in Blandford Forum
- Wraparound extension in Yeovil
Other work in Dorchester:
FAQ
Wraparound extension questions in Dorchester
What postcode areas do you cover around Dorchester?
Including DT1, and the surrounding Dorset area.
Do you handle building control in Dorchester?
Yes. We apply to the council or a registered building control approver and hand over the completion certificate.
How long does a wraparound take?
Usually 14 to 20 weeks on site, longer than a plain rear extension because of the steelwork.
How much does a wraparound extension cost in Dorchester?
As a guide, £2,290–£3,740 per square metre including VAT for a standard specification. For example, L-shaped, about 22 m² of new floor: about £50,500–£82,500 at that rate. Your written price follows the survey.
Do I need planning permission for a rear extension in Dorchester?
Often not for a single-storey rear extension of up to 3 metres (4 metres on a detached house) under permitted development, or up to 6 or 8 metres with prior approval, unless the house is in a conservation area or its rights have been removed.
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.