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 St Peters?
In St Peters, 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 St Peters 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 |
The biggest cost drivers are:
- Steel beams where walls are opened up
- Brick matching and external finishes
- Total floor area across both floors
- 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 St Peters?
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.
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.
We check this for your address before design work starts, so there are no surprises later.
What we handle
On a typical double-storey extension we handle:
- Windows, doors and staircase alterations
- Design drawings and planning application
- Structural engineer’s calculations
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Electrics, heating, plumbing and plastering
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 St Peters
Commuter towns across the South East have many 1930s and post-war semis that suit rear extensions and hip-to-gable loft conversions.
Projects in St Peters (CT10) 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
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
Construction and completion
We build, put right any snags and hand over the building control certificate.
Questions about double-storey extensions in St Peters
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 St Peters?
In St Peters, 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.
Who approves a double-storey extension in St Peters?
Planning matters in St Peters go to the council covering your address, and the work needs building control approval. We prepare and submit the applications for you.
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.
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.
