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 Hoddesdon?
In Hoddesdon, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,750–£2,650 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 36 m² project that is roughly £63,000–£95,500. That range is adjusted for the East of England, where domestic building work typically costs around 6% above the national average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (25 m²) | £44,000–£66,000 |
| Typical project (36 m²) | £63,000–£95,500 |
| Larger project (50 m²) | £87,500–£132,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,750–£2,650 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Bathrooms or en-suites on the first floor
- Total floor area across both floors
- Roof design and how it joins the existing roof
- Steel beams where walls are opened up
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 Hoddesdon?
Approvals for a double-storey extension in Hoddesdon 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.
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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
What we take care of:
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Structural engineer’s calculations
- Design drawings and planning application
- Building control sign-off
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Windows, doors and staircase alterations
How long does it take?
Expect 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 Hoddesdon
Across the East of England, 1930s and post-war semis, newer estates and rural cottages all feature, each with different extension and loft options.
If your home is in Hoddesdon or close by in Hertford, Cheshunt and Waltham Abbey, a free home visit is the first step.
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 Hoddesdon
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.
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Hoddesdon?
In Hoddesdon, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,750–£2,650 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 36 m² project comes to roughly £63,000–£95,500. 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 Hoddesdon?
Typically 14 to 20 weeks on site, after planning and building control approval. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.