Tips for Building an Extension

You might be in awe of other people’s houses, thinking it’s time for an expansion in order to keep up with other property owners. However, it can be quite puzzling to know how to go about building an extension, especially if you don’t know anything about constructing one. So, here are a few tips you can consider if you’re a beginner.

• Determine your budget 
  The cost of building one will depend on the size of the extension, your location, how many storeys you want it to have and its level of specification, which are the details for the project that needs to be completed. This includes information such as the materials needed. According to Homebuilding & Renovating, for a basic quality single-storey extension, you should allow for £1,000-£1,680 per/m2; one with a good quality will cost £1,680-£1,920 while an excellent quality finish will cost £1,920-£2,160. The site also has an extension cost calculator section to help you if you’re having any difficulties.
• Choose a simple design
  This will help you to keep costs down. An extension will be less complicated to construct if your shape and design are simple. For a example, a single-storey or a rectangular shaped extension will be cheaper when compared to angled designs. As well as this, you can also consider different types of building materials and construction systems, which will also help in keeping things cost-friendly. You can opt for concrete sub floors and concrete blockwork for the walls to stay within your budget. There are dense, lightweight and aerated types of concrete blockwork with prices ranging from £10/m2 to £30/m2. To answer any questions you might have, contact any of our construction specialists on our list here. For any design enquiries, you should also consider contacting any of our home designers here.
• Determine if building an extension will add value 
  You should ensure that the extension you want to build will add value to your property in the future. You should aim for a balance throughout your property. For example, it might not be cost effective in terms of increasing the value of a home if you add a small extension, whereas adding a larger extension may increase the value of your property but might mean more expenses. For any enquiries about property, you should get in touch with our local estate agents on our list here.
• Determine if you need planning permission 
  Depending on the location of your extension and its size, you might be able to build an extension under permitted development (PD). However, you will have to meet specific criteria in order for your project to be given the green light, such as single-storey extensions not being higher than 4m on the ridge and eaves. Homebuilding & Renovating also have a more in depth section about the criteria you need to meet. If your property resides in a conservation area or a national park, the amount of work is reduced under PD.
• Apply for planning permission if you want extensive changes 
  You will need to apply for planning permission if you want your extension to have more than one storey. There are various costs in terms of submitting a planning permission application, which can range from £206 for home improvements to £462 for a full application. Planning Portal has a section that will answer any questions you might have about planning permissions. Alternatively, you can also contact any of our property and construction specialists here.
• Comply with Building Regulations 
  You should ensure you comply with building regulations whether you need planning permission or not. Homebuilding & Renovating also has a complete guide on building regulations. You can either submit a full plan submission, which is when you send plans to an inspector or local authority building control for approval, or a building notice, which is a statement informing the local authority that you will be complying with the regulations. A building inspector will then visit during different stages of construction.

These are a few beginner’s tips on what you can do to hopefully make building an extension easier. However, don’t hesitate to do your own research or contact any of our specialists from our list here for any extension enquiries.