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 Didcot?
In Didcot, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,850–£2,800 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 36 m² project that is roughly £66,500–£101,000. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for the South East, where labour and materials are typically about 12% above average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (25 m²) | £46,000–£70,000 |
| Typical project (36 m²) | £66,500–£101,000 |
| Larger project (50 m²) | £92,500–£140,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,850–£2,800 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Bathrooms or en-suites on the first floor
- Steel beams where walls are opened up
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
- Total floor area across both floors
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a double-storey extension in Didcot?
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.
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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
Handled as part of most double-storey extensions:
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Windows, doors and staircase alterations
- Design drawings and planning application
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Foundations, drainage and scaffolding
- Structural engineer’s calculations
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 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 Didcot
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
If your home is in Didcot or close by in Abingdon, Oxford and Thatcham, a free home visit is the first step.
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 Didcot
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Didcot?
In Didcot, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,850–£2,800 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 36 m² project comes to roughly £66,500–£101,000. 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 Didcot?
Typically 14 to 20 weeks on site, after planning and building control approval. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
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.