Double-storey extensions in Penzance: design, approvals and build
If you live in Penzance and want more space without moving, a double-storey extension is one of the most practical ways to get it. We handle the drawings, approvals and the build.
- Guide price in PenzanceFrom £38,500 inc VAT
- PlanningUsually a householder application
- Build time16–24 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsTR18
Will the council need to approve it?
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 Penzance 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).
Who a double-storey extension suits
- 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
What should I budget for a double-storey extension in Penzance?
Labour and material costs vary across the UK, so for Penzance we use our South West England factor (×1.02). The ranges include VAT and exclude design, structural and council fees.
Typical rates in Penzance: £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 |
Want a range for your exact size? The guide-price tool takes about a minute.
Working in Penzance
Site visits are available across Penzance (TR18). We also work in nearby Camborne (12 miles), Redruth (16 miles), Falmouth (21 miles), Truro (24 miles).
For homes towards Devon, Plymouth is around 64 miles away. 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
We produce the drawings and structural design, and manage the approvals so they are in place before work starts.
Fixed written price
We confirm the build price in writing, based on the approved drawings and the finishes you have chosen.
Build and sign-off
Our team builds the extension, keeps you updated weekly and finishes with building control sign-off.
Your questions about a double-storey extension in Penzance
Do you cover all of Penzance?
Yes. We cover Penzance and the surrounding parts of Cornwall. Site visits are free and there is no obligation.
Will my neighbours in Penzance 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.
Who do I contract with for a double-storey extension in Penzance?
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.
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.
Is a two-storey extension cheaper per square metre?
Usually. Our guide range is about £1,580 to £3,060 per m² of new floor area including VAT, compared with £1,780 to £3,470 per m² for single-storey work, because the foundations and roof are shared across two floors.
Book a free site visit in Penzance
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.