A side return property extension is a popular choice for homeowners in the UK looking to maximize the potential of their property, especially in urban areas where space is limited. This type of extension typically involves extending into the narrow strip of land along the side of a property, often in Victorian or Edwardian homes, to create a larger, open-plan living space such as a kitchen or dining area. It’s an effective way to make better use of otherwise unused outdoor space, bringing in more light and creating a more spacious home environment.

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The Process:

1. Initial Consultation & Design: The process starts with an initial consultation where we assess your property and understand your needs. Our architects then create a tailored design that matches your vision, taking into account factors like natural light, the flow of space, and how the extension will integrate with your existing home.

2. Planning Permission: Depending on the size and specifics of your side return extension, you may need to apply for planning permission, particularly if it goes beyond permitted development rights (generally if the extension is over 3 meters or you live in a conservation area). We handle the planning permission process, preparing all necessary documents and working closely with local authorities to secure approvals.

3. Party Wall Agreements: If your property shares walls with neighboring properties, a party wall agreement may be required. This is a legal document that sets out the rights and responsibilities of both you and your neighbors during the construction process. We can manage this process, ensuring that all agreements are in place before work begins.

4. Structural Calculations: Our qualified engineers provide detailed structural calculations to ensure the extension is safe, compliant with building regulations, and structurally sound. This is crucial, especially when considering load-bearing walls and how the new structure interacts with the existing building.

5. Construction Phase: The construction phase involves site preparation, structural work, building the extension, and finishing touches like plastering, flooring, and electrics. During this stage, we maintain open communication to ensure everything aligns with your expectations.

6. Building Control & Completion Certificate: Throughout the build, we coordinate with building control to ensure that all work meets the necessary regulations. Once completed, a building control officer inspects the work and issues a completion certificate, confirming that the extension complies with all standards.

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Timeline:

A side return extension typically takes 8-12 weeks to complete, depending on the complexity and size of the project. The initial design, planning, and approval stages can add an additional 4-8 weeks, depending on the speed of the planning authority and whether a party wall agreement is needed. Overall, you can expect the full process from consultation to completion to take about 3-6 months.

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Necessary Documents:

1. Planning Permission Application (if required)

2. Party Wall Agreement (if applicable)

3. Building Regulations Approval and Structural Calculations

4. Completion Certificate from building control

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Value Added to the Property and Lifestyle:

A side return extension can significantly enhance both the market value and lifestyle quality of a property. Here’s how:

• Increased Property Value: A well-executed side return extension can increase the value of your home by up to 10-20%, making it a sound investment. By adding more usable square footage, particularly in sought-after areas like kitchens or open-plan living spaces, it makes the property more attractive to potential buyers.

• Enhanced Living Space: The additional space created by extending into the side return can transform cramped areas into bright, open-plan living environments. This extra room is perfect for a larger kitchen, dining area, or even a new living room, providing a more comfortable space for daily life and entertaining guests.

• Natural Light: Side return extensions often feature large windows, skylights, or bi-fold doors, allowing natural light to flood into the new space and adjacent rooms. This can make the entire ground floor feel more open and inviting, creating a pleasant atmosphere.

• Better Flow: By opening up the side of the property, the layout can be more versatile and fluid, creating a better connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, especially if it leads to a garden or patio area.

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Overall, a side return extension is an ideal way to transform your home, making it more spacious, modern, and in tune with your lifestyle needs while also adding significant value. With careful planning, professional guidance, and high-quality construction, this type of extension can completely revitalize your living space.