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 Barnstaple?
In Barnstaple, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,700–£2,550 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 36 m² project that is roughly £61,000–£92,000. Building costs in the South West are close to the UK average, so the figures for Barnstaple are close to our national guide. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (25 m²) | £42,500–£64,000 |
| Typical project (36 m²) | £61,000–£92,000 |
| Larger project (50 m²) | £85,000–£127,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,700–£2,550 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Bathrooms or en-suites on the first floor
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
- Steel beams where walls are opened up
- Roof design and how it joins the existing roof
Your exact price depends on the survey and drawings. The guide price tool gives a quick range in the meantime.
Do you need planning permission for a double-storey extension in Barnstaple?
Before anything is built in Barnstaple, we confirm which approvals apply 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.
Where work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 metres of a neighbour’s building and deeper than its foundations (or within 6 metres for deeper work), the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Design drawings and planning application
- Building control sign-off
- Windows, doors and staircase alterations
- Electrics, heating, plumbing and plastering
- Foundations, drainage and scaffolding
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 14 to 20 weeks on site, after planning and building control approval. Design and approvals come first and typically take 3 to 4 months, depending on the approval route.
Building in Barnstaple
In parts of the South West, protected landscapes and conservation areas shape what can be built, so materials and roof forms are chosen carefully.
Our Barnstaple coverage includes postcode districts EX31, and we also work in nearby places such as Bideford, Tiverton and Exeter.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Design and pricing
Design options, then a fixed quote based on the chosen drawings and specification.
- 03
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about double-storey extensions in Barnstaple
Is a double-storey extension cheaper per square metre?
Usually yes. You pay for one set of foundations and one roof but get two floors of space, so the cost per square metre is often lower than a single-storey extension.
Do you build double-storey extensions in Barnstaple?
Yes. We build double-storey extensions across Barnstaple, including postcodes EX31. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Barnstaple?
In Barnstaple, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,700–£2,550 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 36 m² project comes to roughly £61,000–£92,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Does a double-storey extension need planning permission?
Usually. In England a two-storey rear extension can only be permitted development if it is no more than 3 metres deep and at least 7 metres from the rear boundary, and side extensions over one storey always need permission. In practice most are approved through a planning application.
Can I live at home during the work?
Most families stay put. The shell is built first and the house is opened up late in the job, so disruption inside is limited to a few weeks.