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 Potters Bar?
In Potters Bar, 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:
- Brick matching and external finishes
- Total floor area across both floors
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
- Roof design and how it joins the existing roof
For a figure based on your own measurements, try the guide price tool, then book a free home visit for a fixed quote.
Do you need planning permission for a double-storey extension in Potters Bar?
Before anything is built in Potters Bar, we confirm which approvals apply 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.
Building regulations approval comes from the council’s building control service or a registered building control approver. The work is inspected at key stages, such as foundations, drainage and insulation, and a completion certificate is issued at the end.
If the answer is not clear-cut, we can apply for formal confirmation before you commit to the build.
What we handle
From survey to sign-off, the job normally involves:
- Structural engineer’s calculations
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Foundations, drainage and scaffolding
- Electrics, heating, plumbing and plastering
- Building control sign-off
- Design drawings and planning application
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 Potters Bar
Many towns in the East of England have estates built since the 1970s, where garage conversions and rear extensions are popular.
Potters Bar sits in Hertfordshire, about 8 miles south-west of Hertford. We cover the whole of Potters Bar, including postcodes EN6.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 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 handover
Work follows the agreed programme, with inspections along the way and a completion certificate at the end.
Questions about double-storey extensions in Potters Bar
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.
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 Potters Bar?
In Potters Bar, 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 Potters Bar?
Typically 14 to 20 weeks on site, after planning and building control approval. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.