Double-storey extensions in Leighton Buzzard: design, approvals and build
Leighton Buzzard homeowners can use us for the whole double-storey extension project: survey, design, planning or permitted development checks, building regulations and the build itself.
- Guide price in Leighton BuzzardFrom £40,000 inc VAT
- PlanningUsually a householder application
- Build time16–24 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsLU7
Planning rules that apply in Leighton Buzzard
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.
In a conservation area, national park, National Landscape, the Broads or a World Heritage Site the permitted development limits are tighter (no side or two-storey extensions without an application). Listed homes need listed building consent, and if permitted development rights have been removed, any extension needs an application.
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).
Working in Leighton Buzzard
We cover Leighton Buzzard and the postcode districts LU7. The same team covers Dunstable (6 miles), Ampthill (10 miles), Luton (11 miles), Kempston (15 miles), all within easy reach.
Bletchley, in Buckinghamshire, is roughly 6 miles from Leighton Buzzard and also on our list. Across the East of England many houses sit on generous plots, and single-storey and wraparound extensions are a natural fit.
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Leighton Buzzard?
Prices below are for Leighton Buzzard, using the East of England factor of ×1.06. They are guide ranges including VAT for the build only, not a quote.
Typical rates in Leighton Buzzard: £1,640 to £3,180 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 m × 4 m, two floors 24 m² | £40,000 – £48,500 | £45,500 – £60,000 | £58,500 – £76,500 |
| 4 m × 4 m, two floors 32 m² | £52,500 – £63,000 | £61,000 – £80,000 | £78,000 – £102,000 |
| 4 m × 6 m, two floors 48 m² | £78,500 – £94,500 | £91,500 – £120,000 | £117,000 – £153,000 |
For a figure based on your own dimensions, use our guide-price tool.
What we take care of
- Insulation, plastering, electrics and plumbing to finish
- Foundations sized for two floors
- Householder planning application where needed
- Breaking through at both levels, stairs and landing changes where needed
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.
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
It starts with a visit to your house to measure, check access and talk through ideas and budget.
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
With the design and specification agreed, you get a fixed written price and a start date.
Build and sign-off
The build is managed from start to finish, inspected at each stage and signed off on completion.
Common questions in Leighton Buzzard
Will my neighbours in Leighton Buzzard 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 you cover all of Leighton Buzzard?
Yes. We cover Leighton Buzzard and the surrounding parts of Bedfordshire. Site visits are free and there is no obligation.
Can I see a price before committing to anything?
Yes. The guide prices on this page are adjusted for Leighton Buzzard, and the guide-price tool gives a range for your own size. After the survey you get a written price before anything is agreed.
Is a two-storey extension cheaper per square metre?
Usually. Our guide range is about £1,640 to £3,180 per m² of new floor area including VAT, compared with £1,860 to £3,600 per m² for single-storey work, because the foundations and roof are shared across two floors.
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 Leighton Buzzard
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.