Double-storey extensions in Shirley

What should you know before starting in Shirley?

Most two-storey extensions in Shirley need a planning application to Solihull 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.
A side extension of more than one storey always needs a householder planning application.

Postcode district: B90
Planning and building control: Solihull Council
From our West Bromwich base: 10 miles

Which options suit homes in Shirley?

Two-storey rear extension

Adds depth to both floors across the back of the house: a kitchen-diner below and a larger bedroom or new bathroom above. Permitted development only covers projections up to 3 metres and at least 7 metres from the rear boundary, so many rear builds still need planning. Overlooking and loss of light to neighbours are the usual tests.

Combined side and rear

An L-shaped two-storey build wrapping the side and back of the house gives the biggest gain, sometimes two extra bedrooms. It's a substantial project with more steel and a complex roof junction, and it will need a householder planning application. Expect a longer programme and a careful plan for keeping the house secure while the roofs are joined.

Double-storey extensions prices in Shirley

For a home in Shirley, our guide range is £52,000–£135,000 depending on size and specification. A two-storey side extension on a three-bed semi, about 32 m² over two floors: usually £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. A free survey turns this guide into a fixed, itemised price.

Double-storey extensions in Shirley: common questions

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.

Which postcodes in Shirley do you work in?

We cover B90 and the streets around them. If you're on the edge of Shirley, neighbouring Hall Green and Olton are covered too.

Can we stay in the house while you build?

Most families do. The early stages are outside, and the existing house stays closed off until the shell is weathertight. The harder weeks are when openings are cut through on both floors, which brings dust and noise into bedrooms and the kitchen. We sheet off openings, lock up securely every night and agree in advance which rooms you'll lose and when.

Does Solihull Council need to approve my two-storey extension?

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

Nearby places we cover

Other home improvements in Shirley

Want a guide figure first? Use our quote tool for your Shirley extension, then book a survey for a fixed price for the agreed specification.