Double-storey extensions in Fordhouses

Double-storey extensions in Fordhouses: approvals and local details

Most two-storey extensions in Fordhouses need a planning application to City of Wolverhampton Council. A two-storey rear extension can sometimes be permitted development, but only if it is no more than 3 m deep and at least 7 m from the rear boundary, among other conditions. Building Regulations approval is needed either way.

Under permitted development, a rear extension of more than one storey can project no more than 3 metres and must be at least 7 metres from the rear boundary.
Scaffolding is usually up for most of the build, so think about access along the side of the house early.
Councils often expect a side extension's first floor to be set back from the front wall, with its roof below the main ridge.

Postcode district: WV10
Planning and building control: City of Wolverhampton Council
From our West Bromwich base: 9 miles

Which option fits your home?

Two-storey side extension

Built over the side of the house, often where a driveway or old garage sits. It can create a garage, utility or study downstairs with a double bedroom above. Councils often expect the upper floor to be set back from the front and the roof to sit lower than the main ridge, so the design needs care to win approval.

Mixed-height extension

A two-storey section at the side with a single-storey section running across the back. This keeps the first floor away from neighbours' windows while still giving a wide kitchen-diner below. It's a practical compromise where planners have concerns about a full-depth two-storey rear extension, and it often simplifies the roof.

Double-storey extensions prices in Fordhouses

Expect to budget between £52,000 and £135,000 depending on size and specification in Fordhouses. A two-storey side extension on a three-bed semi, about 32 m² over two floors: typically £68,000–£88,000.

Guide prices for double-storey extensions
Option	Guide price	Good to know
Compact two-storey rear (20–28 m² total)	£52,000 – £72,000	Bigger kitchen below, bedroom or bathroom above
Two-storey side or rear (30–40 m² total)	£68,000 – £98,000	The usual size on a three-bed semi
Large or combined side and rear (45 m²+)	£95,000 – £135,000	More steel, a complex roof and a longer programme

Guide ranges include VAT where it applies. Your fixed price for the agreed specification follows a free survey at your Fordhouses address.

Questions about double-storey extensions in Fordhouses

Is a double-storey extension better value than a single-storey one?

Per square metre, usually yes. Foundations and roofs are the expensive parts of any extension, and on a two-storey build they serve twice the floor area. You'll pay more in total and planning is less certain, but if you need a bedroom as well as downstairs space, building both together normally costs less than two separate projects years apart.

Do you cover Fordhouses?

Yes. Fordhouses (WV10) is about 9 miles from our West Bromwich base and inside the area we cover. Call 0800 088 6248 or send the form on this page to book a free survey.

What will the council look at when deciding planning?

Councils judge two-storey extensions mainly on their effect on neighbours and the street. They look at loss of light and outlook next door, overlooking from upstairs windows, and whether the extension sits comfortably with the house, often expecting side extensions to be set back and lower than the main roof. Many councils publish householder design guides, and following yours closely improves the chance of approval.

Does City of Wolverhampton Council need to approve my two-storey extension?

Usually both. Most two-storey extensions need a planning application to City of Wolverhampton Council, and the structural work needs Building Regulations approval from its building control team or a registered building control approver.

Also covering nearby

Other home improvements in Fordhouses

Ask for a free survey in Fordhouses and we'll tell you what's likely to get planning before you pay for drawings.