Double-storey extensions for homes in Sunderland
From the first sketch to final sign-off, we plan and build double-storey extensions in Sunderland and the surrounding Tyne and Wear area.
- Guide price in SunderlandFrom £34,500 inc VAT
- PlanningUsually a householder application
- Build time16–24 weeks on site
- Postcode districtsSR1, SR2, SR4, SR5, SR6
Local to Sunderland
Our survey diary covers Sunderland, including SR1, SR2, SR4, SR5, SR6, SR9. We also work in nearby Washington (5 miles), Houghton-le-Spring (6 miles), Jarrow (7 miles), South Shields (7 miles).
Across the North East, houses often have rear yards or modest gardens, so compact, well-lit single-storey extensions make the biggest difference.
How much does a double-storey extension cost in Sunderland?
For Sunderland we adjust our national guide rates by ×0.91, the factor we use for North East England. Figures include VAT; your written quote after the survey replaces them.
Typical rates in Sunderland: £1,410 to £2,730 per m² including VAT, depending on specification.
| Size | Essential | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 m × 4 m, two floors 24 m² | £34,500 – £41,500 | £39,000 – £51,500 | £50,000 – £66,000 |
| 4 m × 4 m, two floors 32 m² | £45,000 – £54,000 | £52,000 – £68,500 | £66,500 – £87,500 |
| 4 m × 6 m, two floors 48 m² | £67,500 – £81,000 | £78,500 – £103,000 | £100,000 – £131,500 |
Want a range for your exact size? The guide-price tool takes about a minute.
Planning and approvals in Sunderland
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.
Before any drawing is finalised we check whether the house is listed, in a conservation area or subject to an Article 4 direction.
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).
Is a double-storey extension right for your house?
- Houses with enough distance to the rear or side boundary
- Growing families who need a bedroom as well as a bigger kitchen
- Homeowners who would otherwise consider moving
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.
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
We draw the design, agree it with you and handle planning or permitted development checks and building regulations.
Fixed written price
With the design and specification agreed, you get a fixed written price and a start date.
Build and sign-off
Our team builds the extension, keeps you updated weekly and finishes with building control sign-off.
Double-storey extension questions answered
Can I see a price before committing to anything?
Yes. The guide prices on this page are adjusted for Sunderland, and the guide-price tool gives a range for your own size. After the survey you get a written price before anything is agreed.
Will my neighbours in Sunderland 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 Sunderland?
Yes. Almost every extension needs it, whatever the planning route. We prepare the drawings and book the inspections.
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 Sunderland
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.