The Cost of Adding a Second-Floor Extension to a Cape Cod Home in Queens, NY: Converting to a Two-Family Dwelling

If you're a homeowner in Queens, NY, with a Cape Cod-style house, you might be considering a second-floor extension to increase your living space, accommodate a growing family, or even convert your home into a two-family dwelling. While the idea of adding a second story can be an exciting way to make the most of your property, it's essential to understand the costs involved—especially if you're also considering adding a kitchen and converting the home into a two-family dwelling.

In this blog post, we’ll break down the costs of adding a second floor, converting your one-family dwelling to a two-family, and making additional modifications like adding a kitchen and brickwork to enhance the exterior.

Factors Affecting the Cost of a Second-Floor Extension

1. Home’s Existing Structure

Cape Cod homes often have an aging main support beam, and many may not have the structural support to handle a second story without reinforcement. This could mean additional costs for foundation work or reinforcing load-bearing walls and beams. Involves reinforcing the lally columns with rebar and concrete 

2. Zoning and Permitting

In Queens, like much of NYC, zoning laws are strict. When adding a second floor, you'll need to secure permits, which can take time and incur additional costs. One major factor to consider is converting your home from a one-family to a two-family dwelling. This conversion may require more extensive work and higher fees for permits, inspections, and approvals from the NYC Department of Buildings. Along with a second story extensions some of the permits to obtain is the following: 

• NYC DOB General Construction Permit 
• NYC DOB Plumbing permit 
• NYC DOB Fence Permit
• NYC DOB Mechanical Permit 

3. Labor and Materials

Labor costs in NYC are typically higher than in other parts of the country due to the demand for skilled tradespeople in the area. Materials are also more expensive in NYC, especially given the logistical challenges of delivering supplies to the city and certain parts of the city. The choice of materials—whether for brick, quartz countertops, specility wood floors, —can significantly influence the overall cost of the project.

4.Estimated Costs of a Second-Floor Extension in Queens

The cost of adding a second floor in Queens depends on the size of your home and the scope of your project. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Basic Addition

For a straightforward second-floor extension with standard finishes (such as basic drywall, carpeting, and cabinets), the cost typically ranges from **$150 to $250 per square foot**. If you’re planning a 1,000 to 1,500 square-foot extension, your total cost would range between $150,000 and $375,000 only counting the construction cost 

High-End Addition

If you choose to upgrade finishes or incorporate custom features (like quartz fireplace mantle, exterior brick veener and stone/stucco, and iron railings), the cost could increase significantly. For a high-end addition, expect to pay between $300 and $400 per square foot. For a 1,000 to 1,500 square-foot second story, this could bring the total project cost to anywhere from $300,000 to $600,000

Converting to a Two-Family Dwelling

Converting your home from a one-family to a two-family dwelling adds another layer of complexity and cost. You'll need to install a separate kitchen, additional electrical and gas meter, and  create separate entrances to ensure the units are private and meet NYC building codes. These changes can add anywhere from $30,000 to $70,000 or more to your project, depending on the level of customization and the specific requirements for your conversion.

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond the basic construction, there are other costs to be mindful of:

Architectural Design Fees

If you're working with an architect to design your second-floor extension and conversion, expect to pay 5% to 10% of the total project cost for their services. This investment ensures your plans are professionally drawn and compliant with local codes. This would include the architect fee itself to NYC DOB filing fees to asbestos testing report, to a soil bore test and TR1/TR8 fees. 

Structural Reinforcements

Given that Cape Cod homes may need additional structural support for the second floor, you may face extra costs to reinforce the foundation, walls, or roof framing. These unanticipated costs should be factored into your budget. Unsure of the costs add another from 2%-10% of the project cost into budget anywhere from $7,500-$ 37,500

Adding a second floor to your Cape Cod home in Queens, NY, and converting it into a two-family dwelling is a major undertaking that requires careful planning and budgeting. The cost of such a project can range from $250,000 to $500,000, depending on the size of your extension, the materials used, and the scope of the conversion. If you are doing a simple home of second floor extension along with a 1-2 family convertion and doing simple finishes like vinyl siding, vinyl windows, hardwood flooring, soft close cabinets, 2-3 bathrooms, 1-2 kitchens, new doors and electrical and plumbing expect to pay around $250,000-$400,000

While more luxurious finishes or custom designs could push costs to **$300 to $400 per square foot**. Converting the home into a two-family dwelling, and incorporating brickwork/stones can significantly increase the total price, potentially bringing your maximum budget to around $550,000

Before you begin, make sure to consult with local contractors, architects, and zoning experts to understand the full scope of the project and get a precise estimate. With the right planning and professional support, you can successfully add that second floor, create a more functional space, and turn your one-family home into a two-family dwelling that will meet your needs for years to come.

Have a Property and Need Help Converting from 1-2 Family or Making a Second Floor Extension Call Purewal Contractors Inc @ 718-441-5258