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UNSEL CONSULTANCY LTD
BLOG POSTHouse Extension London: Costs, Planning and Design Guide
DATE02 Jul 2026
AUTHORGokhan Unsel
STATUSPUBLISHED

House Extension London: Costs, Planning and Design Guide

02 Jul 2026 · Gokhan Unsel

An extension is one of the most effective ways to add living space and value to a London home. If you are thinking about a rear, side return or wrap-around extension, it pays to understand the process first.

Types of Home Extension in London

Rear Extension

The most common type. Single-storey rear extensions up to 4 metres (detached) or 3 metres (semi-detached/terraced) can often be built under Permitted Development.

Side Return Extension

Popular in Victorian and Edwardian properties. Fills the gap between the house and the boundary wall, often combined with a rear extension to create a large open-plan kitchen.

Double Storey Extension

Adds two floors of space for maximum square footage. Usually requires full planning permission and careful architectural design.

Wrap-Around Extension

Combines a rear and a side return extension for the largest possible footprint, and can completely change how the kitchen and living space work.

Opening in a brick wall held up with temporary props during building work
Most extensions start with opening up an existing wall, so the structure is planned first.

Home Extension Costs in London

  • Single-storey rear extension (3m x 4m): £40,000–£70,000
  • Side return extension: £45,000–£75,000
  • Double storey extension: £80,000–£150,000+
  • Wrap-around extension: £70,000–£120,000

Get Started with Unsel Consultancy

Unsel Consultancy designs extensions and prepares planning applications across London.

Learn more about our council approval drawings or contact us for a free initial consultation.

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