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 Rutland?
In Rutland, 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 Rutland 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:
- Bathrooms or en-suites on the first floor
- Steel beams where walls are opened up
- Roof design and how it joins the existing roof
- Total floor area across both floors
Use the guide price tool to see how size and specification change the figure, then ask for a written, itemised quote.
Do you need planning permission for a double-storey extension in Rutland?
Before anything is built in Rutland, 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.
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
Handled as part of most double-storey extensions:
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Structural engineer’s calculations
- Electrics, heating, plumbing and plastering
- Design drawings and planning application
- Foundations, drainage and scaffolding
- Windows, doors and staircase alterations
How long does it take?
Build time is typically 14 to 20 weeks on site, after planning and building control approval. Before that, surveys, drawings and approvals usually take 3 to 4 months, longer if the council asks for changes.
Building in Rutland
In the East Midlands, many estates built since the 1960s have integral garages that convert well into a study or bedroom.
Towns we cover in Rutland include Oakham.
How it works
- 01
Free visit
We look at the property, talk through what you want and measure up. There is no charge and no obligation.
- 02
Drawings and written quote
We prepare the design and give you a written, itemised quote with inclusions and exclusions.
- 03
Approvals in place
We handle planning, building control and neighbour notices before work starts.
- 04
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about double-storey extensions in Rutland
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.
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 much does a double-storey extension cost in Rutland?
In Rutland, 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.
How long does a double-storey extension take in Rutland?
Typically 14 to 20 weeks on site, after planning and building control approval. Design and approvals beforehand usually take 3 to 4 months.
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.
