Double-storey extensions in Horwich: design, approvals and build
A double-storey extension in Horwich starts with the right design and the right approval route. We take care of both, then build it with our own project management.
- Guide price in HorwichFrom £36,000 inc VAT
- PlanningUsually a householder application
- Build time16–24 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsBL6
Planning and approvals in Horwich
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.
The planning position for a specific Horwich address depends on its history and any designations, which is why we check it at the first visit.
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.
Building over or within 3 m of a public sewer needs the water company's consent, usually through a build-over agreement, before the foundations go in.
Applications are decided by the local planning authority (your district, borough or unitary council).
When a double-storey extension makes sense
- Growing families who need a bedroom as well as a bigger kitchen
- Homeowners who would otherwise consider moving
- Houses with enough distance to the rear or side boundary
The roof is what makes a two-storey extension look right or wrong. We match the pitch and materials of the main house wherever possible and plan the upstairs layout around the existing landing so the new rooms feel original rather than bolted on.
Extensions in and around Horwich
Postcode districts we cover around Horwich include BL6. The same team covers Westhoughton (4 miles), Hindley (5 miles), Bolton (5 miles), Wigan (5 miles), all within easy reach.
Chorley, in Lancashire, is roughly 4 miles from Horwich and also on our list. The North West has a high share of Victorian and Edwardian terraces with rear yards and outriggers, plus large areas of inter-war semis in the suburbs.
What should I budget for a double-storey extension in Horwich?
For Horwich we adjust our national guide rates by ×0.95, the factor we use for North West England. Figures include VAT; your written quote after the survey replaces them.
Typical rates in Horwich: £1,470 to £2,850 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 m × 4 m, two floors 24 m² | £36,000 – £43,500 | £41,000 – £54,000 | £52,000 – £68,500 |
| 4 m × 4 m, two floors 32 m² | £47,000 – £56,500 | £54,500 – £71,500 | £69,500 – £91,500 |
| 4 m × 6 m, two floors 48 m² | £70,500 – £84,500 | £82,000 – £107,500 | £104,500 – £137,000 |
Want a range for your exact size? The guide-price tool takes about a minute.
How the project works
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
First, a site visit: we look at the house, garden, access and drains and listen to what you need.
Design and approvals
We draw the design, agree it with you and handle planning or permitted development checks and building regulations.
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.
Questions people ask about double-storey extensions
How long does a double-storey extension take to build in Horwich?
On site, typically 16 to 24 weeks once approvals are in place. Before that, allow 8–16 weeks design and approvals.
Will my neighbours in Horwich 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.
Do I need building regulations approval in Horwich?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
Is a two-storey extension cheaper per square metre?
Usually. Our guide range is about £1,470 to £2,850 per m² of new floor area including VAT, compared with £1,660 to £3,230 per m² for single-storey work, because the foundations and roof are shared across two floors.
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.
Book a free site visit in Horwich
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.