Builders & Renovation Specialists in Fulham

About Fulham

Common Projects in Fulham

Nearby Areas

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Hammersmith and Fulham's basement development restrictions?

Stricter than most London boroughs. Hammersmith and Fulham introduced specific basement policy following neighbour-nuisance complaints from large-scale excavation work. Single-storey basements are typically permitted; multi-storey basements (digging more than one floor below ground) are restricted in most areas. A Construction Management Plan is required for projects affecting the highway, covering vehicle access, hours of work, dust and noise mitigation, and waste management. Some streets have additional restrictions in conservation areas. We ensure all designs comply with current policy before submission to avoid refusal.

Why are Fulham foundations more expensive than in surrounding boroughs?

London Clay and proximity to the Thames. The clay subsoil in SW6 requires foundations of 1.2-1.5 metres for standard extensions, and basement conversions face hydrostatic pressure from groundwater that must be managed with proper waterproofing systems. Properties within 200-300 metres of the Thames may also need a Flood Risk Assessment for new extensions and may sit in Flood Zone 2. Mature trees on the larger plots can require deeper foundations of 1.5-2.0 metres or piled foundations. Total foundation cost premium over flat-site boroughs: typically £4,000-£10,000.

Are Fulham conservation areas restrictive for extensions?

Moderately. The Fulham Park Gardens, Studdridge Street, Hurlingham, and other Fulham conservation areas impose specific requirements on visible alterations including window replacement (timber sash typically required), render colour, front door style, and roof material. Front-facing changes are generally refused; rear extensions and side returns are usually approved with appropriate materials. Hammersmith and Fulham's pre-application advice service is useful for confirming feasibility on conservation-area projects. We design to the council's published guidelines from the outset and our submitted designs typically get approved without revisions.

Why do Fulham renovation projects often involve removing rear additions?

Many Fulham Victorian terraces have rear additions (kitchens, sculleries, outhouses) that were built in stages from the 1880s onwards. These additions are often poorly built compared with the main house, have inadequate foundations or single-skin walls, and create awkward layouts that don't suit modern living. When extending, we typically remove the existing addition and rebuild as a single coherent extension with proper foundations, insulation, and structural integrity. This costs more than building onto the existing addition but produces a significantly better long-term result and often resolves damp problems that the old addition was causing.