Double Storey Extensions in Reading

What should I look for when hiring a builder for a double storey extension in Reading?

When hiring a builder for a double storey extension in Reading, look for clear scope, fixed-price quoting, proof of insurance, recent references, and a builder who can explain structure and Building Regulations without waffle.

The quote should include foundations sized for two floors, steels, floor structure, roof alterations, stairs or landing changes, and upstairs making good. For Reading properties, a builder should check party wall risk, existing drains, chimney breasts, and whether the house can stay usable during the build.

The strongest hiring test is whether the builder can turn a vague idea into a clear scope before asking you to commit. Look for insurance evidence, references, quote detail, payment stages, Building Control knowledge, and a named person responsible for the site.

Double storey extensions add space upstairs and downstairs, so the structure, roof tie-in, drainage, and neighbour impact need more careful coordination. Planning risk is higher because height, overlooking, loss of light, and roof massing matter more than on most single storey work.

Reading has a mix of Victorian terraces, semis, student-area rentals, family homes, and tighter town plots. Rear access can be limited, so waste removal, material storage, and delivery timing should be priced before work starts.

Reading sits under Reading Borough Council. Conservation pockets, party walls, and terrace access mean drawings, neighbour notices, and structural details often matter early.

Before agreeing the work, ask for a written scope that names inclusions, exclusions, payment stages, variation process, site protection, waste removal, and who manages the job day to day. That is the difference between a headline price and a buildable quote.

Planning permission and Building Regulations are separate. Even if planning is simple, Building Control still needs the relevant structure, insulation, drainage, fire safety, ventilation, electrics, roof work, and final completion evidence for the specific double storey extension.

Berkshire Bespoke Builders covers Reading and provides free written quotes for double storey extensions. Pindi Sahota has 32 years on the tools and manages projects personally, with fixed-price quotes once the scope is clear.