If you're a homeowner then there is a good chance at some point you've considered extending your home. The fact is, moving home can be quite costly, especially when you throw stamp duty into the mix and sometimes it can be more cost effective to extend than it is to move.
There are many things to consider when extending a home and it can be quite a long process, but it doesn’t have to be stressful, you just need to ask yourself the right questions before you begin. With this is in mind, we’ve put together a quick guide on what you need to keep in mind before the construction starts.
Confirm your budget
One of the most important aspects to consider before you start this process is the budget. You need to decide as soon as possible, how much you are willing to spend and find out what type of extension that budget will get you. Be sure to remember that just like most house projects there will always be additional costs and hidden extras, so note down everything from the cost of materials to the planning permission and builder’s fees.
It is also worth thinking about how much value an extension will add to the current value of the home. If you have no plans to move out of your current home, then this may be less of a concern, but you should keep in mind how you will affect the home’s value, if you were to sell in the future.
Decide on your design
Once you’ve finalised your budget, you will now need to make a decision on the type of extension you’d prefer. The two most popular choices for the majority of homeowners are the conservatory and the loft conversion, as extra bedrooms and living space can really add to a home’s value.
After figuring out the type of extension you’re looking to build, you should then think about the design of your new space. If you have plans for a new bedroom, now is your chance to plan the best possible layout to accommodate the type of bedroom you’re looking for. Maybe you’re looking to build a child’s room with plenty of floor space, maybe you’re considering something suited more for adults with built in wardrobes, but whatever you’re looking for, now is time to work out the most suitable layout for your needs.
Find out about the limitations of your area
Depending on the location, there could be some limitations to the type of work you can carry out on your home. It’s worth checking if you live in a conservation area, these are typically located in more historic areas, meaning if the work on your home is not deemed to enhance or improve what is currently there, your design may be under scrutiny or you may not receive permission to begin your work at all.
Regardless of whether you live in a historic area or not, most areas will require planning permission before you can move ahead with the work on your home and it can take up to 8 weeks for your application to be approved, so it’s best to get organised as early as possible.
Research the regulations
In addition to needing permission to begin work on your home, you will also need to ensure that the work carried out meets any current building regulations. Take some time to properly research all the necessary regulations that apply to your extension, these include doors, windows, electrics, drainage, etc. so you can be positive that everything meets the legal standards.
Hire a professional
Once you have your budget confirmed, you’ve finalised your design and you received permission to get things started, you now need to hire a professional.
It can be tempting to try and save some money by taking the DIY approach and some of you may have experience with similar types of work, but unless you are a licensed professional, you shouldn’t try to tackle tasks such as electrics and plumbing by yourself. This is especially important when it comes to structural work, not only will this ensure it meets the necessary standards, but it will also provide you with peace of mind knowing that your extension won’t unexpectedly fall apart a few years down the line.
