Double-storey extensions in Rayleigh
A double-storey extension in Rayleigh 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 RayleighFrom £40,000 inc VAT
- PlanningUsually a householder application
- Build time16–24 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsSS5, SS6, SS7
Is a double-storey extension right for your house?
- 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.
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.
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.
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.
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).
Extensions in and around Rayleigh
Postcode districts we cover around Rayleigh include SS5, SS6, SS7. Nearby, we also take on projects in Hadleigh (2 miles), Benfleet (3 miles), Wickford (4 miles), Canvey Island (5 miles).
Gillingham, in Kent, is roughly 14 miles from Rayleigh and also on our list. The East of England mixes market-town terraces, inter-war semis and modern estates. Clay soils are common in parts of the region, which can affect foundation design.
Double-storey extension prices in Rayleigh
These guide figures apply our East of England adjustment (×1.06) to national rates. They include VAT at 20% and cover the build itself; design and council fees are listed separately.
Typical rates in Rayleigh: £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 |
Want a range for your exact size? The guide-price tool takes about a minute.
What happens next
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
Work is carried out to the agreed programme, inspected by building control and signed off at the end.
Common questions in Rayleigh
How long does a double-storey extension take to build in Rayleigh?
On site, typically 16 to 24 weeks once approvals are in place. Before that, allow 8–16 weeks design and approvals.
Who do I contract with for a double-storey extension in Rayleigh?
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.
Can I see a price before committing to anything?
Yes. The guide prices on this page are adjusted for Rayleigh, 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.
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.
Book a free site visit in Rayleigh
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.