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We are all well aware of the reasons why many people consider expanding their home. This choice may be in lieu of moving or simply a decision made in isolation from any other alternative. There are many reasons why extensions make more economic sense compared to removals. Costs attributed to this process may include stamp duty, legal fees, and other associated fees and costs. All of this is money simply wasted in the process. When the calculations of such costs are made, there is often a clear alternative to avoid them and still get the additional living space that is needed. Where do you start?
A good starting point is the consideration that you want to make sure that everything you build offers a return on your investment. While it may simply be that your family is growing the space, it’s always sensible to make sure the space you’re adding is delivering a return. What else should you consider?
It is good to always think in practice. If you are adding more bedrooms to your property, you should also consider additional bathrooms. If you are planning a two-story extension, then you should also consider access to the additional space upstairs. Is your property size increasing so much that you should also consider additional parking? These are all items that will need to be thought through carefully before requesting the planning.
The cost of your extension will increase as the size does. There are guidelines on the average cost per/m2. These can range from £1000 to £2000 depending on the preparatory work required and the level of finish. The higher the specification standard, the more you’ll pay. It’s also important to remember that if you’re considering a two-story extension, it won’t cost much more per square foot. Why is this? The cost of the foundation and the roof are necessary for a single story extension. Adding another floor means adding walls and floor joists, but a part of the additional costs can already be attributed to those already agreed for a single-story project.
Planning permission may not always be required for your extension project. However, it is always prudent to seek advice in relation to this. You may feel that your plans fit under the umbrella of allowed development rights, but at this stage it is important not to make assumptions. It may delay the process a bit, but the peace of mind you’ll get from going through the right channels is well worth it. There may be individual stipulations on your property or neighboring properties that you are not aware of.
Later on, you also need help to comply with building regulations. These form a separate process from planning permissions and are required for construction projects. These rules, in a nutshell, have been formally agreed upon to ensure minimum design and construction standards are met. Local authority representatives will visit the property on a regular basis to ensure that the completed work meets these standards.
Rest assured that your chosen builder will be in a position to help and support you at every stage of the preparatory work and beyond. The time invested in finding a reputable local builder will pay dividends as much of the worry will be taken away. This guide has been produced to provide a starting point for your construction project. There are many elements to consider, however an informed approach is always recommended and will inevitably produce a better standard of finish.