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 Rottingdean?
In Rottingdean, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,850–£2,800 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 36 m² project that is roughly £66,500–£101,000. Building costs in the South East run about 12% above the UK average, and the figures for Rottingdean are adjusted to reflect that. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (25 m²) | £46,000–£70,000 |
| Typical project (36 m²) | £66,500–£101,000 |
| Larger project (50 m²) | £92,500–£140,000 |
| Rate per m² | £1,850–£2,800 |
What moves the price most:
- Roof design and how it joins the existing roof
- Total floor area across both floors
- Steel beams where walls are opened up
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
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 Rottingdean?
Here is how the rules work for a double-storey extension 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
Handled as part of most double-storey extensions:
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Electrics, heating, plumbing and plastering
- Design drawings and planning application
- Building control sign-off
- Windows, doors and staircase alterations
- Foundations, drainage and scaffolding
How long does it take?
The build itself usually takes 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 Rottingdean
The South East has a broad mix of housing, from Victorian terraces in the towns to post-war semis and newer estates, so extension types vary street by street.
Projects in Rottingdean (BN2 and BN51) are surveyed in person before we quote, so the price reflects your actual property.
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
Permissions sorted
Applications, building control and neighbour arrangements, all before the start date.
- 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 Rottingdean
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.
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.
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 Rottingdean?
Yes. We build double-storey extensions across Rottingdean, including postcodes BN2 and BN51. Every project starts with a free home visit.
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Rottingdean?
In Rottingdean, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,850–£2,800 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 36 m² project comes to roughly £66,500–£101,000. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.