SW4
Builders in Clapham
Side return extensions, loft conversions and full refurbishments for Clapham's Victorian and Edwardian homes.
What we build in Clapham
Clapham's streets are lined with Victorian and Edwardian terraces, many already split into flats. The jobs we're asked about most are the classic London trio: a side return to open up the kitchen, a dormer in the loft for an extra bedroom and bathroom, and a full refurbishment to bring a tired house up to date.
- Side return and rear extensions
- L-shaped and rear dormer loft conversions
- Full house refurbishments
- Flat refurbishments
- Kitchen and bathroom renovations
- Knock-throughs and structural steels
Recent work in South West London
A dormer loft, extension and full refurbishment, and an extension with a full refurbishment. See all projects

Full refurbishment + rear extension, landscaping and loft conversion
Comprehensive property transformation featuring full house refurbishment, rear extension, complete garden landscaping, and loft conversion creating a stunning multi-level family home.

Side and rear extension and full house refurbishment
Comprehensive side and rear extension with complete house refurbishment featuring luxury bathroom renovation with premium fixtures, elegant tiling, and modern design.
Loft conversions on Clapham terraces
A typical Clapham terrace has a pitched main roof and a lower roof over the back addition. An L-shaped dormer built across both is the usual way to get a decent bedroom and an en suite up there. Outside a conservation area this can often go ahead under permitted development; inside one it needs planning permission.
The stairs, fire safety and steelwork are where loft projects are won or lost, so we plan them properly at the start. Building control will want a protected escape route down through the house, which usually means fire doors and sometimes changes to the hallway.
To see what that looks like finished, our Wimbledon project includes a full dormer loft conversion with a new oak staircase. There's more on lofts on our loft conversions page.
Questions about building in Clapham
Do I need planning permission for a side return extension in Clapham?
It depends on the house and the street. Many single-storey side extensions can be built under permitted development, but not in a conservation area, and not on a flat. Lambeth and Wandsworth both have conservation areas in Clapham, so it's worth checking your road first. We'll do that for you before you commit.
How long does a loft conversion take?
A typical dormer conversion on a terrace takes roughly two to three months on site, depending on size, spec and whether the main roof structure changes. You'll get a timeline with your quote.
Can we stay in the house during the work?
For a loft conversion, usually yes, as most of the work happens from the scaffold until the stairs go in. For a side return or full refurbishment it's harder without a kitchen, so we'll talk through options and phasing before we start.
Clapham project?
Fill in what you can and your message writes itself. Send it on WhatsApp or by email, whichever is easier.
- Rather talk? 0844 818 0188
- Want us to come and look? Book a site visit
- Need a detailed price? Get a full quote
Members of the Federation of Master Builders. What this means