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 Greenford?
In Greenford, a double-storey extension typically costs £2,150–£3,250 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 36 m² project that is roughly £77,500–£117,000. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for London, where labour and materials are typically about 30% above average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (25 m²) | £54,000–£81,000 |
| Typical project (36 m²) | £77,500–£117,000 |
| Larger project (50 m²) | £107,500–£162,500 |
| Rate per m² | £2,150–£3,250 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
- Roof design and how it joins the existing roof
- Bathrooms or en-suites on the first floor
- Steel beams where walls are opened up
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 Greenford?
Approvals for a double-storey extension in Greenford follow the rules for 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
The work we manage on a double-storey extension:
- Electrics, heating, plumbing and plastering
- Building control sign-off
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Design drawings and planning application
- 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. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Greenford
Victorian and Edwardian terraces dominate many London streets, which is why side return, wraparound and mansard projects are so common here.
Greenford sits in Greater London, about 10 miles west of central London. We cover the whole of Greenford, including postcodes UB6.
How it works
- 01
Survey and brief
We visit, discuss your ideas and budget, and survey the property or site at no cost.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 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 Greenford
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 long does a double-storey extension take in Greenford?
Typically 14 to 20 weeks on site, after planning and building control approval. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
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.
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Greenford?
In Greenford, a double-storey extension typically costs £2,150–£3,250 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 36 m² project comes to roughly £77,500–£117,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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.
