There are several types of property in the UK.
This blog focuses on semi detached properties.
We’ll include what these are, where they’re found, and the pros and cons of living in one.
What is a semi-detached house?
A semi-detached house is a property that’s split into two residences.
This means that there is one common wall, while the other wall is free. This gives the property type its name.
Semi detached houses became especially common during the Victorian and Edwardian periods.
The first evidence dates back to the late 1800s. During this time, the government was aware that population was increasing.
Semi-detached properties were thus a useful ‘middle ground’ solution for more people.
A semi-detached house is not the same as a terraced house.
The latter is connected on both sides to neighbours, with the exception of an ‘end of terrace. Meanwhile, the former only has one common wall.
Where are semi-detached houses usually found?
You find most semi detached houses in towns and suburban areas.
This gives a balance between urban and rural living.
Semi detached houses are less common in city centres, due to the limited space.
Meanwhile, in rural areas, detached properties are by far the most common.
Is a semi-detached house freehold or leasehold?
Most semi detached houses are freehold. This means that the buyers own the land underneath the building. (Leaseholds are generally more common in flats)
The title plans will display the boundary with the neighbouring property.
Keep in mind that there are some exceptions to this.
Leasehold semi detached houses do sometimes occur. This is especially common when the property is part of a larger development.
Make sure you clarify this detail before you buy a semi detached house. It’s risky to presume that it’s freehold, because it might not be.
Semi Detached property’s value
As you can imagine, the average price of each property type varies based on your location in the United Kingdom. But data is available from Zoopla about the typical prices in major cities.
The average semi detached house in the UK is priced at £275,100. In the most recent 12-month period, this number has gone up by 2.6%.
The most expensive location for this type of property is London.
Indeed, in Kensington and Chelsea, a semi detached house costs £1.017 million on average. Whereas in Hackney, a more affordable part of the city, £552,000 is typical.
Recent stats from the Scottish government states that a semi detached house costs roughly £200,000. Meanwhile, in Wales, it’s approximately £209,000.
Advantages of living in a Semi Detached House
Privacy
You only share one common wall when living in a semi detached house. This is less than a terraced property, where it’s two.
And with a flat, you could sometimes share walls with four or more other people.
This gives you more privacy in your house.
You won’t hear other people as much, and they are less likely to hear you. You also won’t have footsteps above or below you.
Square footage
The average semi detached house is larger than most terraced properties or flats.
You have more space to enjoy, which makes it ideal for larger families.
You’ll typically have more bedrooms and bathrooms – and if you don’t, then these rooms will be larger to make up for it.
Driveway and garden
Semi detached houses will often have their own driveway and garden. This makes them unique compared to flats and terraced properties.
Flats will never usually have either of these things. And terraced properties may have a garden, but only street parking.
Not only does this improve the functionality of your house, but it also increases its value.
Disadvantages of living in a Semi Detached House
Noise from neighbours
Sharing a common wall with the people next door can result in extra noise. Especially if these walls are thin, or your neighbours are particularly noising.
Hearing them can be disturbing and irritating. You feel less relaxed.
Disputes over boundaries
You’re far more likely to have disputes with neighbours when you live in a semi-detached house. The boundaries for fences, driveways, or pathways can all be a bit hazy.
And not everyone takes the time to dig up the title plans, and get clarity, which everyone then abides by.
It may thus turn into an extra headache, especially if your neighbours aren’t reasonable.
Restrictions over design and extensions
The possibilities for redesigning and extending your semi-detached home are typically limited. You won’t be able to knock through the common wall.
And there may be limitations on how far you can extend the house both upwards and behind.
After all, blocking out light from the person next door can make planning permission impossible.
Is it possible to extend a semi-detached house?
Yes, you can. You’ll usually need to get planning permission first, though. You may be stopped if your suggestions block out natural light from your neighbours.
Other than that, there’s quite a few extensions possible. By keeping it on one storey, rear, side, or wraparound extensions are all common.
If your semi detached house is leasehold, then you need permission from the freeholder.
