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 Wallasey?
In Wallasey, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,550–£2,350 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). For a typical 36 m² project that is roughly £56,000–£84,500. The guide for Wallasey reflects typical costs in the North West, roughly 6% below the UK-wide figure. Design, structural calculations and council fees are extra.
| Size or type | Guide range |
|---|---|
| Smaller project (25 m²) | £39,000–£59,000 |
| Typical project (36 m²) | £56,000–£84,500 |
| Larger project (50 m²) | £77,500–£117,500 |
| Rate per m² | £1,550–£2,350 |
The main things that change the cost:
- Roof design and how it joins the existing roof
- Scaffolding and access to the rear
- Bathrooms or en-suites on the first floor
- Total floor area across both floors
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 Wallasey?
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.
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
- Brick or block walls, floors and a roof tied into the house
- Opening up at both levels with steel beams
- Building control sign-off
- 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. Design and approvals come first and typically take 3 to 4 months, depending on the approval route.
Building in Wallasey
The North West has many brick terraces and inter-war semis, where kitchen extensions and dormer loft conversions add space without moving.
Wallasey sits in Merseyside, about 4 miles west of Liverpool. We cover the whole of Wallasey, including postcodes CH44 and CH45.
How it works
- 01
Visit and measured survey
A free visit to understand the project, check access and take measurements.
- 02
Design and fixed quote
Drawings, structural calculations and an itemised, fixed price for the agreed specification.
- 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 Wallasey
Do you build double-storey extensions in Wallasey?
Yes. We build double-storey extensions across Wallasey, including postcodes CH44 and CH45. Every project starts with a free home visit.
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 Wallasey?
In Wallasey, a double-storey extension typically costs £1,550–£2,350 per m² of floor area (both floors), including VAT at 20% (standard rate). A typical 36 m² project comes to roughly £56,000–£84,500. Your fixed price depends on the survey and drawings.
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.
