Covering Cambridge
Our coverage around Cambridge (CB5, CB21, CB22) also includes Huntingdon (16 miles to the north-west) and Haverhill.
Homes in the East of England
Across the East of England, newer estates often have integral garages and room for rear extensions, while older towns have Victorian terraces and conservation areas that shape what can be built.
What goes into an upward extension?
The first question is whether the existing walls and foundations can carry the extra load, so we start with a structural survey. Then we design either a full first floor or a raised roof with dormers, handle planning or prior approval, and build the new storey while protecting the floor below.
- Design and planning or prior approval application
- Staircase and changes to the ground floor layout
- Full fit-out of the new rooms
What will an upward extension cost?
Typical ranges for bungalow and upward extensions. Ground conditions, access and specification move the final figure, which we fix in writing before work starts.
| Bungalow and upward extensions | Guide price incl. VAT |
|---|---|
| Chalet conversion with dormers (total) | £45,000 to £85,000 |
| New first floor, standard specification | £2,200 to £2,800 per m² |
| New first floor, good specification | £2,800 to £3,300 per m² |
| New first floor, high specification | £3,300 to £3,800 per m² |
Planning and building rules in Cambridge
English projects need planning clearance from the local council, building regulations sign-off from building control, and party wall notices where the work is on or near a shared boundary. We prepare and manage all three.
In England, Class AA permitted development allows an extra storey on many detached and semi-detached houses built between July 1948 and October 2018, subject to a prior approval application covering design, neighbours’ amenity and other matters. Houses in conservation areas and other protected land need full planning permission, as do most chalet conversions with front dormers.
What should I think about before starting?
- Some bungalow foundations need strengthening before a storey can be added.
- The staircase takes space from the ground floor plan.
What are the steps?
- Send us the details. Give us a postcode, a rough idea of size and some photos, by phone, form or the guide price tool.
- We visit and measure. A surveyor checks the house, the boundaries and the ground, and discusses what is realistic.
- Price and paperwork. The design is priced line by line, and we submit the planning and building control applications.
- We build it. Work follows an agreed programme, with inspections at each stage and a final sign-off.
Bungalow and upward extensions: common questions
How much does it cost to add a storey?
Around £2,200 to £3,800 per square metre of new floor including VAT, or £45,000 to £85,000 for a chalet conversion with dormers.
Do we need to move out?
Often for part of the job, while the roof is off and the new floor is formed. We plan this with you.
Can you visit a house in Cambridge to quote?
Yes. After a short call we arrange a site visit to measure up and agree what the design needs to do, then send a written price.
Also covering
- Bungalow and upward extensions in Huntingdon
- Bungalow and upward extensions in Haverhill
- Bungalow and upward extensions in St Neots
- Bungalow and upward extensions in Letchworth Garden City
Learn more about bungalow and upward extensions, or see every project we cover in Cambridge.