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 Billingham?
In Billingham, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,500–£2,250 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 36 m² project that is roughly £54,000–£81,000. Prices across the North East are typically 10% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Billingham. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (25 m²) | £37,500–£56,000 |
| Typical project (36 m²) | £54,000–£81,000 |
| Larger project (50 m²) | £75,000–£112,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,500–£2,250 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Roof design and how it joins the existing roof
- Steel beams where walls are opened up
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
- Total floor area across both floors
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a double-storey extension in Billingham?
Before anything is built in Billingham, 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.
At the survey we check your house’s planning history and any restrictions, and tell you which route applies.
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
- Foundations, drainage and scaffolding
- Structural engineer’s calculations
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 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 Billingham
Across the North East, colliery-era terraces and newer estates sit side by side, so the right project depends on the house type.
We work across Billingham and neighbouring areas such as Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough and Thornaby-on-Tees. Postcodes we cover in Billingham include TS23.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 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 Billingham
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Billingham?
In Billingham, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,500–£2,250 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 36 m² project comes to roughly £54,000–£81,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you build double-storey extensions in Billingham?
Yes. We build double-storey extensions across Billingham, including postcodes TS23. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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.
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.
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.
