House Extensions in Coulsdon (CR5)
The 1930s semi is the standard Coulsdon house, and it extends better than almost anything else built since. Decent plot depth, a simple structure and a rear elevation that takes a wide single-storey addition without fighting you.
Why the 1930s stock extends so well
These houses were built with room behind them and a straightforward structure — solid, predictable, and without the awkward rear additions that make Victorian terraces more complicated.
That means a full-width single-storey rear extension is usually achievable without unusual engineering, and it produces the kitchen-dining space most households actually want. The two things worth thinking about are light and the side. Building across the full width can leave the middle of the house dark, which is what rooflights are for; and on a semi, whether you can also come out to the side depends on the gap to the boundary and what your neighbour has already done.
The older streets and the conservation areas
The Victorian and Edwardian terraces around the older parts of town are a different job, with the side return the obvious gain and the usual attention to drains and party walls. On the protected period properties within the conservation areas, what is acceptable is constrained before anything is drawn — materials and design both — and we would rather give you an honest view at survey than price a scheme unlikely to be approved.
One firm answerable from survey to handover
Our own team does the building work, and the specialists for electrics, roofing and decorating are brought in and managed by us. One firm answerable throughout.
More in Coulsdon
Everything we do in Coulsdon is on the Coulsdon area sheet, and the full detail of how we approach this trade is on the extensions & renovations page.
Common questions
Q.01Can I do a full-width rear extension on a 1930s semi?
Usually, and it is the most common job we price in Coulsdon. The structure is straightforward; the design question is keeping light in the middle of the house.
Q.02Will the middle of my house go dark?
It can if it is not planned for, which is what rooflights and the position of the openings are for. It is worth deciding at the drawing stage rather than after.
Q.03Can I extend to the side as well?
It depends on the gap to your boundary and what has already been built next door. We look at it at the survey and tell you plainly.
Q.04How long does a single-storey rear extension take?
On this stock it is a fairly predictable build, which is one of its advantages. You get a programme in writing with the price.
Thinking about extensions & renovations in Coulsdon?
Tell us what you are planning. We come out, look at the job properly and give you a price for it.