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 the Highlands and Islands?
In the Highlands and Islands, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,600–£2,400 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 36 m² project that is roughly £57,500–£86,500. Prices in Scotland sit near the national average for this kind of work, and the range for the Highlands and Islands reflects that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (25 m²) | £40,000–£60,000 |
| Typical project (36 m²) | £57,500–£86,500 |
| Larger project (50 m²) | £80,000–£120,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,600–£2,400 |
Your quote will depend mainly on:
- Steel beams where walls are opened up
- Total floor area across both floors
- Brick matching and external finishes
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
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 the Highlands and Islands?
Here is how the rules work for a double-storey extension in Scotland. In Scotland an extension of more than one storey is only permitted development if it is at least 10 metres from every boundary and no higher than the existing ridge, so most need planning permission. A building warrant is needed before work starts.
Scotland has no Party Wall Act. Work on shared walls is governed by your title deeds, the Tenements (Scotland) Act 2004 for flats, and common law, so we agree arrangements with neighbours in writing before work starts.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
On a typical double-storey extension we handle:
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Electrics, heating, plumbing and plastering
- Structural engineer’s calculations
- Foundations, drainage and scaffolding
- Windows, doors and staircase alterations
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
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 the Highlands and Islands
Scotland’s housing ranges from sandstone tenements and villas to post-war and modern estates, and the building warrant system shapes how projects are planned.
Towns we cover in the Highlands and Islands include Inverness, Stornoway, Fort William, Nairn, Thurso and Kirkwall.
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
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about double-storey extensions in the Highlands and Islands
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.
Do I need planning permission for a double-storey extension in the Highlands and Islands?
In Scotland an extension of more than one storey is only permitted development if it is at least 10 metres from every boundary and no higher than the existing ridge, so most need planning permission. A building warrant is needed before work starts.
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.
How much does a double-storey extension cost in the Highlands and Islands?
In the Highlands and Islands, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,600–£2,400 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 36 m² project comes to roughly £57,500–£86,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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 long does a double-storey extension take in the Highlands and Islands?
Typically 14 to 20 weeks on site, after planning and building control approval. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.