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 Pontypridd?
In Pontypridd, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,500–£2,300 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 36 m² project that is roughly £54,000–£83,000. We start from a UK-wide guide and adjust it for Wales, where labour and materials are typically about 8% below average. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (25 m²) | £37,500–£57,500 |
| Typical project (36 m²) | £54,000–£83,000 |
| Larger project (50 m²) | £75,000–£115,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,500–£2,300 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Brick matching and external finishes
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
- Roof design and how it joins the existing roof
- Bathrooms or en-suites on the first floor
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 Pontypridd?
Here is how the rules work for a double-storey extension in Wales. In Wales a rear extension of more than one storey can be permitted development if the ground floor projects no more than 4 metres and the upper floor no more than 3 metres, with at least 10.5 metres to the rear boundary and obscure-glazed upper side windows. It is not permitted development in conservation areas, National Parks or National Landscapes, so many double-storey extensions need a householder application.
Building regulations in Wales are set by the Welsh Government. Approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver, with inspections during the work and a completion certificate at the end.
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:
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Building control sign-off
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Windows, doors and staircase alterations
- Foundations, drainage and scaffolding
- Structural engineer’s calculations
How long does it take?
Allow 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 Pontypridd
Wales has many terraced valley streets, stone cottages and post-war estates, so extension designs are shaped by slopes, materials and local character.
Projects in Pontypridd (CF37) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
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 fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 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 Pontypridd
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Pontypridd?
In Pontypridd, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,500–£2,300 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 36 m² project comes to roughly £54,000–£83,000. 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 I need planning permission for a double-storey extension in Pontypridd?
In Wales a rear extension of more than one storey can be permitted development if the ground floor projects no more than 4 metres and the upper floor no more than 3 metres, with at least 10.5 metres to the rear boundary and obscure-glazed upper side windows. It is not permitted development in conservation areas, National Parks or National Landscapes, so many double-storey extensions need a householder application.
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.
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.
Do you build double-storey extensions in Pontypridd?
Yes. We build double-storey extensions across Pontypridd, including postcodes CF37. Every project starts with a free home visit.
