What is a double-storey extension?
A double-storey extension (also called a two-storey extension) adds rooms on both the ground and first floor in one build. It typically gives a larger kitchen or living space downstairs and an extra bedroom or bathroom above.
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Arnold?
In Arnold, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,550–£2,400 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 36 m² project that is roughly £56,000–£86,500. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the East Midlands, where labour and materials are typically about 5% below average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (25 m²) | £39,000–£60,000 |
| Typical project (36 m²) | £56,000–£86,500 |
| Larger project (50 m²) | £77,500–£120,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,550–£2,400 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Brick matching and external finishes
- Total floor area across both floors
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
- Steel beams where walls are opened up
A guide range is only a starting point: the guide price tool gives an instant figure for your size, and a free survey turns it into a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a double-storey extension in Arnold?
The approval route for Arnold is set by planning law in England. In England an extension of more than one storey can only be permitted development at the rear, no more than 3 metres deep and at least 7 metres from the rear boundary, with matching materials and any upper side windows obscure-glazed. Most double-storey extensions therefore go through a householder planning application.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
What we handle
The work we manage on a double-storey extension:
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Structural engineer’s calculations
- Windows, doors and staircase alterations
- Foundations, drainage and scaffolding
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Design drawings and planning application
How long does it take?
Expect 14 to 20 weeks on site, after planning and building control approval. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Arnold
In the East Midlands, many estates built since the 1960s have integral garages that convert well into a study or bedroom.
Arnold sits in Nottinghamshire, about 3 miles north of Nottingham. We cover the whole of Arnold, including postcodes NG5.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about double-storey extensions in Arnold
Will the first floor need a new staircase?
Not normally. The new rooms are reached from the existing landing, though a doorway or short corridor may need to be formed.
How close can it be to my neighbour?
Councils look at loss of light and outlook for neighbours. Many apply a 45-degree guideline from the nearest neighbouring window. We design to the council’s published guidance to give the application the best chance.
Do you build double-storey extensions in Arnold?
Yes. We build double-storey extensions across Arnold, including postcodes NG5. Every project starts with a free home visit.
What drawings do I need?
Planning drawings for the application, then more detailed building regulations drawings and structural calculations for building control. We prepare both.
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Arnold?
In Arnold, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,550–£2,400 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 36 m² project comes to roughly £56,000–£86,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.