Single-Storey vs Double-Storey Extensions: What Works Best for Havant Homes?
Home extensions continue to be one of the most popular building projects across Havant, Bedhampton, Emsworth, Hayling Island and Waterlooville. With rising house prices and limited availability of larger homes, many families are choosing to extend rather than move.
One of the biggest decisions homeowners face is whether to build a single-storey extension or a double-storey extension. Both options offer excellent benefits, but the right choice depends on your property, budget and long-term plans.
This guide compares single vs double storey extensions in Havant, covering costs, planning rules, space, disruption and value — helping you decide which option works best for your home in 2025.
What Is a Single-Storey Extension?
A single-storey extension extends the ground floor of your property and is commonly built at the rear or side of the house.
Popular uses in Havant include:
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- Kitchen extensions
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- Open-plan kitchen-dining spaces
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- Family rooms
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- Home offices
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- Utility rooms
Single-storey extensions are especially popular in Bedhampton and Emsworth, where many homes benefit from generous garden space.
What Is a Double-Storey Extension?
A double-storey extension adds space across two floors, typically extending both the ground floor and the first floor.
Common uses include:
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- Larger kitchens and living areas downstairs
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- Additional bedrooms upstairs
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- New bathrooms or en-suites
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- Full layout reconfigurations
Double-storey extensions are common in Waterlooville and parts of Havant, where family homes often need extra bedroom space.
Cost Comparison: Single vs Double Storey Extensions in Havant
Single-Storey Extension Costs
Typically £1,800 – £2,500 per m²
Costs depend on:
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- Size and layout
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- Roof design
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- Glazing (bifold doors, roof lanterns)
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- Internal finishes
Single-storey extensions are often more affordable upfront and quicker to complete.
Double-Storey Extension Costs
Typically £2,200 – £3,200 per m²
Although more expensive overall, double-storey extensions often provide better value per square metre, as foundations and roofing are shared across both floors.
Which Option Adds More Space?
Single-Storey Extensions
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- Increase ground-floor living space
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- Ideal for improving kitchens and family areas
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- Great for entertaining and open-plan layouts
Double-Storey Extensions
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- Add space upstairs and downstairs
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- Ideal for growing families
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- Create additional bedrooms and bathrooms
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- Improve overall layout flexibility
If your main issue is lack of bedrooms, a double-storey extension is usually the better option.
Planning Permission in Havant
Single-Storey Extensions
Many single-storey extensions fall under Permitted Development, meaning planning permission may not be required if size limits are respected.
They are often easier to approve and face fewer objections from neighbours.
Double-Storey Extensions
Double-storey extensions are more likely to require planning permission, especially if:
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- They affect neighbouring properties
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- They alter the appearance of the home
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- They overlook adjacent gardens
Homes in conservation areas or near sensitive boundaries may face additional restrictions.
Disruption & Build Times
Single-Storey Extensions
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- Build time: 8–12 weeks
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- Less disruption to the rest of the home
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- Often possible to remain living in the property
Double-Storey Extensions
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- Build time: 16–24+ weeks
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- More structural work
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- Greater disruption during construction
If minimising disruption is important, a single-storey extension may be preferable.
Which Option Adds More Value to Havant Homes?
Single-Storey Extensions
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- Improve lifestyle and usability
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- Add value through modern open-plan layouts
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- Particularly appealing to families and downsizers
Double-Storey Extensions
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- Often add greater overall value
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- Increase bedroom and bathroom count
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- Appeal strongly to growing families
In areas like Emsworth and Waterlooville, double-storey extensions often deliver the strongest long-term return.
Which Is Best for Your Havant Property?
Choose a Single-Storey Extension if you want:
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- A lower upfront cost
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- Faster construction
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- Minimal disruption
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- A larger kitchen or living space
Choose a Double-Storey Extension if you want:
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- Additional bedrooms or bathrooms
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- Maximum space increase
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- Better long-term value
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- A full family-home upgrade
The right choice depends on your property layout, budget and future plans.
Final Thoughts
Both single-storey and double-storey extensions are excellent options for Havant homeowners in 2025. Whether you’re improving your kitchen in Bedhampton, adding bedrooms in Waterlooville, or upgrading your family home in Emsworth, a well-planned extension can transform how you live.
Speaking with an experienced local Havant builder helps ensure your extension is designed correctly, complies with planning rules and delivers long-term value.