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 Pinner?
In Pinner, 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. The guide for Pinner reflects typical costs in London, roughly 30% above the UK-wide figure. 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 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
- Brick matching and external finishes
- Bathrooms or en-suites on the first floor
- Total floor area across both floors
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 Pinner?
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.
Our first visit includes a check of your planning history, so you know the route before paying for drawings.
What we handle
The work we manage on a double-storey extension:
- Building control sign-off
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Electrics, heating, plumbing and plastering
- Windows, doors and staircase alterations
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Design drawings and planning application
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 Pinner
Space is at a premium in London, so homeowners often build out into the side return or up into the roof rather than move.
If your home is in Pinner or close by in Ruislip, Harrow and Northolt, 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
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 Pinner
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Pinner?
In Pinner, 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.
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.
Do you build double-storey extensions in Pinner?
Yes. We build double-storey extensions across Pinner, including postcodes HA5. Every project starts with a free home visit.
Does a double-storey extension need planning permission?
Usually. In England a two-storey rear extension can only be permitted development if it is no more than 3 metres deep and at least 7 metres from the rear boundary, and side extensions over one storey always need permission. In practice most are approved through a planning application.
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.
