An extension to your home can be a great way to add extra space and value to your property.
However, before you start your project, there are a number of important considerations to keep in mind to make the extension process run smoothly.
This article will cover four key considerations that can help you plan your extension and get it started the right way.
Your Available Budget
First things first, no extension will be able to be started without considering your budget. The budget gives you an idea of the size, design, and materials you can afford to work with.
Essentially, it provides you with everything that you need going forward. Try to put money aside each month to work out how much you could afford to save, and this will give you inspiration from now on, too.
As well as budgeting for the amount you think you need, you should try to budget a bit more. This will help factor in any unexpected expenses that may arise during construction.
It is a good idea to gain more clarity over the cost of your extension project before you begin, as this will allow you to make a more informed decision across the board. For example, the budget could dictate the overall design of the extension. This includes the style, the materials and the overall colours. Of course, it will also largely dictate the size and shape of the space. In regards to your overall home, think about the new layout, and how that could impact the home.
Planning Applications
Before you are able to begin any work on an extension in your home, you will need to apply for planning permission from your local council. Depending on how busy your council is and the area you’re in, it could take several weeks or even months. It will also depend on the type of extension you’re doing, too. All of this can factor into your extension timeframe.
The planning application will need to comply with local building regulations, zoning laws, and environmental laws. It would be best if you researched the policies that are involved in a local planning application ahead of time. The last thing you want to do is send off a planning permission form and have it rejected due to something you misunderstood or did not read.
One of the things that may be contained within your planning permission for an extension will be local environmental surveys. Environmental surveys can help support your planning application, as it shows the due diligence and plan you’ve put into place. These can be sourced from a few different places. For example, a bat survey from places such as BatSurveys.co.uk can help with planning requirements and help you get your planning application over the line with the local planning authority.
You will need to ensure you prepare your plans and documents ahead of time. You will need to prepare detailed plans and drawings of the proposed extension. This will include floor plans, elevations, and a site plan. It wouldn’t hurt your chances to provide additional documents ahead of time, too, such as securing energy or heritage statements.
The Materials You Will Use
The planning permission stage may also want to know what sort of materials you will use. In general, the materials that you use for your extension are another important consideration. In order to create a sustainable and long-lasting extension, you will need to choose building materials that are durable, long-lasting, and fit in with the existing property.
You will also need to consider the environmental impact of the materials you choose, and whether or not they are energy-efficient. You don’t have to be an expert in sustainable construction to get started on this. You can work with construction experts who can offer advice and help you, and you can find a range of online resources that cover sustainable building materials. Do your research ahead of time, even if it’s minimal.
When looking at the materials, you want to use, consider the impact on the local environment further than the physical materials. For example, consider the impact on the local ecology and wildlife in general. As mentioned above, it is likely that you will need to go through a planning permission application that addresses these concerns.
Contractors
Finally, it is important to choose the right contractor for your project. This will likely involve you looking for a contractor who has experience in building extensions, as well as having a good reputation for the work they complete. You may have heard about their work from a friend or family member, and trust that they have quality workmanship.
You will also be able to read reviews online about contractors, which could also help inform your decision on which contractor to pick. Not only should you consider their reviews, but you should also think about your situation. In particular, you should think about their availability for the dates you need, and you should think about the overall cost. In many cases, it could come down to how much money you are able to spend.
Before completing any work or signing up to a contract, you should seek references from any workers you wish to employ and ensure they are fully accredited. These are essential steps to take before you hand over any money. If in doubt, work with established organisations rather than freelancers, as they may be easier to deal with.
Final Thoughts
To conclude, building an extension to your home is a major project, and you will need to treat it as such. There are many important considerations to keep in mind. From your budget and the design, to the materials and the contractors, you will need to ensure that you have thought through all the important details before you start.
With the right planning and preparation, you can create an extension to your home that adds value to it, while making it a more enjoyable place to live. Follow the advice listed and consult experts to get started.
