GS Renovation designs and builds house extensions throughout Borough and SE1, adding space to the Victorian and Edwardian terraces that define this corner of Southwark. Drawing on more than 30 years of building experience, we handle rear, side-return and wrap-around extensions, from homes near the South Bank to the terraces stretching towards Bermondsey and Peckham.
Side-return and rear extensions in Borough
The classic Borough extension fills the side return, the narrow strip of yard beside the rear closet wing that so many of these terraces carry. Infilling it widens a cramped kitchen into a bright open-plan space, often combined with a rear extension to push further into the garden. We handle the foundations and groundworks, the steel beams that carry the old outside wall, the roof works and the full fit-out as one continuous project.
Because these are solid-wall period houses on tight urban plots, we plan every extension around the existing closet wing, the drainage runs and the party walls with neighbours either side. We match brickwork and detailing where it matters, and we keep the works tidy and contained on the restricted SE1 sites that are typical here. One team stays responsible from the first dig to the final coat of paint.
Planning and party walls in Southwark
Whether your extension needs a full planning application to Southwark Council or falls under permitted development depends entirely on the property, its size and whether it sits in a conservation area. Many single-storey rear extensions on Borough terraces proceed under permitted development, while larger, double-storey or wrap-around schemes usually require permission. We assess your home honestly and tell you which route applies before you commit.
Alongside planning, the structural side is covered by building regulations, with building control inspecting foundations, steelwork and drainage as the extension goes up. And because you are digging and building close to the boundary in these terraces, the Party Wall Act almost always applies, so you serve notices on adjoining owners. We manage planning, building control and party wall matters together so nothing is missed.
- Levels, drainage and landscaping made good around the new build
- Insulation, airtightness and thermal detailing to regulations
- Planning applications and permitted development assessments
- Scaffolding, site set-up and safe access on tight London plots
- Flat and pitched roofs with rooflights or lanterns
Trusted House Extensions in Borough
Borough homeowners choose GS Renovation because one team takes an extension from design and groundworks through steelwork, roof and fit-out, with the planning, building control and party wall matters handled alongside. Over 30 years on SE1 terraces means we understand side returns, closet wings and tight plots, delivering extensions that feel part of the original house.
- Drainage diverted or built over with the right approval in place
- Aftercare and snagging support once the job is finished
- Foundation depth set after trial holes, drains and trees are checked
- Free follow-up visit after completion if anything needs attention
- Building control inspected at foundation, damp course and steel stages
- A written scope and programme agreed before work starts