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 Bridgwater?
In Bridgwater, 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. Prices in the South West sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for Bridgwater reflects that. 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 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Steel beams where walls are opened up
- Roof design and how it joins the existing roof
- Total floor area across both floors
- Bathrooms or en-suites on the first floor
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 Bridgwater?
Here is how the rules work for a double-storey extension 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
The work we manage on a double-storey extension:
- Windows, doors and staircase alterations
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Building control sign-off
- Electrics, heating, plumbing and plastering
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Structural engineer’s calculations
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 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 Bridgwater
In parts of the South West, protected landscapes and conservation areas shape what can be built, so materials and roof forms are chosen carefully.
From TA6 outwards, we take on projects throughout Bridgwater and the surrounding parts of Somerset.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about double-storey extensions in Bridgwater
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Bridgwater?
In Bridgwater, 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.
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.
How long does a double-storey extension take in Bridgwater?
Typically 14 to 20 weeks on site, after planning and building control approval. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
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.
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.