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 Larkhall?
In Larkhall, 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. Building costs in Scotland are close to the UK average, so the figures for Larkhall are close to our national guide. 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 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
- Brick matching and external finishes
- Bathrooms or en-suites on the first floor
- Roof design and how it joins the existing roof
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 Larkhall?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
On a typical double-storey extension we handle:
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Foundations, drainage and scaffolding
- Electrics, heating, plumbing and plastering
- Building control sign-off
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- 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 Larkhall
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.
Larkhall sits in Lanarkshire, about 4 miles south-east of Hamilton. We cover the whole of Larkhall, including postcodes ML9.
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
Approvals
Planning or permitted development confirmation, building regulations and any party wall matters.
- 04
Build and sign-off
We run the build to a written programme and hand over the completion certificate.
Questions about double-storey extensions in Larkhall
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 Larkhall?
In Larkhall, 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.
Who approves a double-storey extension in Larkhall?
Planning matters in Larkhall go to the council covering your address, and the work needs a building warrant. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
Do I need planning permission for a double-storey extension in Larkhall?
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.
