Extension / additional floor

Home extension and additional floor — United Arab Emirates

Adding a room, enclosing a terrace or building an extra floor lets you gain space without moving. These are structural projects that need serious preparation before any ground is broken. On Helplease, you describe your project and the workers offering this service in United Arab Emirates are notified of your request.

Types of projects

• Single-storey extension: a new room attached to the house at ground level.
• Additional floor: building a storey on top of the existing structure.
• Enclosing a space: turning a terrace, covered patio or garage into a habitable room.
• Rooftop room: creating a room on a flat roof.

Depending on the project and what you agree with the worker, the structural work can include foundations, columns and beams, walls, slabs, openings and roofing. Finishing trades (electrics, plumbing, joinery, coverings) should be specified or handled through other services in the catalogue.

Key points

The existing structure

An additional floor puts significant extra weight on walls and foundations. Their capacity must be checked by a qualified professional before any commitment: this is what makes the project safe.

Permissions

An extension or extra floor usually requires authorisation. Check with the relevant authorities what applies to your property before starting.

Plans

A project of this scale relies on plans. If you have them, mention it in your request; if not, say that this still needs to be arranged.

Site organisation

Material access, storage, rubble removal and living in the home during the work all need to be planned.

What affects the price

• the area to create and number of levels;
• the type of structure and foundations;
• the connection to the existing building and any reinforcement;
• openings and roofing;
• site access;
• the scope entrusted (structure only or more) and supply of materials.

The rate is agreed with the worker, usually on the basis of a detailed quote.

Frequently asked questions

Can any house have an extra floor added?

No. It depends on the existing structure and the applicable rules. A prior check is essential.

Does the worker handle the finishing?

That is defined in the agreement. Say whether you expect a shell or more.

How should I present my project?

Give the desired area, the type of project, the condition of the existing building, any plans or permissions already obtained, and your time constraints.

Can I live in the home during the work?

Often yes for an extension, with some constraints; for an extra floor, it depends on the scale of the work. Discuss it with the worker.