Double-storey extensions across Dorset
Our design and build teams take on double-storey extensions in Dorset, from the first measured survey through planning and building control to the finished room.
- Guide priceFrom £38,500 inc VAT
- PlanningUsually a householder application
- Towns covered9
- Site visitFree, no obligation
Towns in Dorset
Double-storey extension prices in Dorset
For Dorset we adjust our national guide rates by ×1.02, the factor we use for South West England. Figures include VAT; your written quote after the survey replaces them.
Typical rates in Dorset: £1,580 to £3,060 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 m × 4 m, two floors 24 m² | £38,500 – £46,500 | £44,000 – £58,000 | £56,000 – £73,500 |
| 4 m × 4 m, two floors 32 m² | £50,500 – £60,500 | £58,500 – £77,000 | £75,000 – £98,000 |
| 4 m × 6 m, two floors 48 m² | £75,500 – £91,000 | £88,000 – £115,500 | £112,500 – £147,000 |
Try the guide-price tool to see a range for your own size and finish.
Do I need planning permission in Dorset?
In England a two-storey rear extension is permitted development only if it projects no more than 3 m from the original rear wall, sits at least 7 m from the rear boundary, matches the roof pitch and uses obscure, non-opening side windows upstairs. Most two-storey extensions therefore go through a householder planning application, which costs £548 from 1 April 2026 and normally takes about 8 weeks.
Homes in conservation areas, national parks, National Landscapes (formerly AONBs), the Broads and World Heritage Sites have tighter rules, so we always check the property's status and planning history before design starts.
If the work involves a shared wall, building on the boundary, or digging foundations within 3 m (sometimes 6 m) of a neighbour's building, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notice must be served before work starts: two months for work to a party wall, one month for new walls on the boundary and for excavations.
Applications are decided by the local planning authority (your district, borough or unitary council).
What is included
- Ground and first floor structure, roof tied into the existing roof
- Foundations sized for two floors
- Householder planning application where needed
- Breaking through at both levels, stairs and landing changes where needed
Covering Dorset
Towns we cover in Dorset include Bournemouth, Poole, Weymouth, Christchurch, Dorchester, Wimborne Minster, Bridport, Ferndown. In the South West, local stone, render and brick vary from town to town, so matching materials is a big part of designing an extension that looks right.
From first visit to completion
Site visits are free and there is no obligation. Where drawings are needed, the design stage is priced in writing before it starts.
Free site visit
A designer visits, takes measurements and photos, and discusses layouts, budget and timing with you.
Design and approvals
Once the layout is agreed, we deal with the council: planning permission or written confirmation that none is needed, plus building control.
Fixed written price
The price is fixed in writing once the design is settled, with a clear programme and payment stages.
Build and sign-off
We build it with one project manager, book the building control inspections and hand over the completion certificate.
Your questions about a double-storey extension in Dorset
Who do I contract with for a double-storey extension in Dorset?
Your contract is with S&K Property Investments and Improvement Ltd, which designs and manages the project and the build teams who carry it out.
Will my neighbours in Dorset be involved?
If a planning application or prior approval is needed, the council notifies neighbours. If the work is on or near a shared boundary, party wall notices may also be needed.
Can I see a price before committing to anything?
Yes. The guide prices on this page are adjusted for Dorset, and the guide-price tool gives a range for your own size. After the survey you get a written price before anything is agreed.
Do I need a Party Wall Agreement?
If you are in England or Wales and the work involves a shared wall or digging foundations close to a neighbour, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies and notices must be served before work starts. We tell you which notices are needed.
Does a double-storey extension need planning permission?
Often, yes. In England a two-storey rear extension can be permitted development only if it projects no more than 3 m and sits at least 7 m from the rear boundary, with matching roof pitch and obscure side windows. Side extensions over one storey always need planning permission. We confirm the route at the survey.
Book a free site visit in Dorset
We will measure up, check the planning position and give you honest guide figures.
- Free, no-obligation site visit
- Planning route checked before you spend on drawings
- Written price once the design is agreed
- Building control sign-off at the end
Prefer to talk? Call 0800 088 6341 or .
Book a free site visit
Tell us a little about the project and we will arrange a time.