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 Melton Mowbray?
In Melton Mowbray, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,550–£2,400 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 36 m² project that is roughly £56,000–£86,500. The guide for Melton Mowbray reflects typical costs in the East Midlands, roughly 5% below the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (25 m²) | £39,000–£60,000 |
| Typical project (36 m²) | £56,000–£86,500 |
| Larger project (50 m²) | £77,500–£120,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,550–£2,400 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
- Total floor area across both floors
- Brick matching and external finishes
- 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 Melton Mowbray?
Whether you need planning permission depends on your house and its location 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.
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
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Electrics, heating, plumbing and plastering
- Structural engineer’s calculations
- Windows, doors and staircase alterations
- Building control sign-off
- Foundations, drainage and scaffolding
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 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 Melton Mowbray
In the East Midlands, many estates built since the 1960s have integral garages that convert well into a study or bedroom.
If your home is in Melton Mowbray or close by in Oakham, Loughborough and Leicester, 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
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 handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about double-storey extensions in Melton Mowbray
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 Melton Mowbray?
In Melton Mowbray, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,550–£2,400 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 36 m² project comes to roughly £56,000–£86,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
Who approves a double-storey extension in Melton Mowbray?
Planning matters in Melton Mowbray go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
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.
