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 Cheshire?
In Cheshire, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,550–£2,350 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 36 m² project that is roughly £56,000–£84,500. Prices across the North West are typically 6% below the UK average for this kind of work, which is reflected in the range for Cheshire. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (25 m²) | £39,000–£59,000 |
| Typical project (36 m²) | £56,000–£84,500 |
| Larger project (50 m²) | £77,500–£117,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,550–£2,350 |
What moves the price most:
- Bathrooms or en-suites on the first floor
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
- Brick matching and external finishes
- Steel beams where walls are opened up
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 Cheshire?
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
Handled as part of most double-storey extensions:
- Design drawings and planning application
- Electrics, heating, plumbing and plastering
- Structural engineer’s calculations
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Building control sign-off
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 Cheshire
Terraced streets across the North West often suit rear dormers and single-storey kitchen extensions.
Towns we cover in Cheshire include Warrington, Chester, Crewe, Ellesmere Port Town, Widnes and Runcorn.
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
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about double-storey extensions in Cheshire
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Cheshire?
In Cheshire, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,550–£2,350 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 36 m² project comes to roughly £56,000–£84,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Do you build double-storey extensions in Cheshire?
Yes. We build double-storey extensions across Cheshire, including postcodes CH1, CH2, CH3, CH33 and CH34. 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.
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.