House Renovation Ideas 

Everything You Need To Know When Planning An Extension

With house prices increasing, home extensions are a very attractive alternative to moving when families need more space. While this seems like a simple choice, there is quite a lot you need to consider when planning house extension designs.

What’s The Budget?

First of all, you need to go through your finances and work out what your budget is. Do this before approaching companies for quotes, so that you can have a budget in mind before getting too excited. Remember to factor in any extras, such as decorating, and check if quotes are inclusive of VAT. Make sure you stick to your budget, as overspending can cause significant problems later on.

What Is It For?

Make sure you are clear about what you want from your new extension as there are different types which work best for different goals. Double storey extensions can provide both living space and extra bedrooms. While a beautiful conservatory brings nature into the home and offers a lovely living space.

Do You Need a House Extension Planning Permission?

Some smaller extensions and small loft conversions don’t need permission, but most extensions do need authorising before work can start. Neighbours and local businesses can all prevent your project from being accepted, so it is a good idea to go around and explain everything to them to avoid this. Getting the neighbours on board can save a lot of hassle later on.

Is Your Home Listed?

Permitted development rights don’t apply to listed and protected buildings, so extensions will need to have listed building consent as well as planning permission. It is important that you work closely with the local authority building control in order to create an extension that will follow the character of the house and not alter it too much.

Who Should You Hire?

Finding the best builder can be a difficult job. Ask around for recommendations, and look at neighbours houses. If they have an extension similar to what you want, ask who they used and if they were good. It is better to pay more for a respectable builder than a lower quality company. It will save money and issues in the long run. Some builders will bring their own tools and equipment, some require you to pay for these as extras. Check with them how many materials they need and what machinery. These are straightforward to the book, look online for wholesalers and excavator hire from RME.

Do You Need an Architect?

For simple house extension designs, the builders can work from their own designs and plans. But, if your home is a different shape or on unusual land, or if you want a fancy and more elaborate design, then you may need to enlist an architect.

What’s Your Timetable?

Work out a deadline for the work to be done and try to stick with it. Be practical though and add extra time on due to issues and problems. Work closely with architects and builders throughout so things aren’t forgotten. And remember the rooms will need decorating and furnishing after the workmen have finished.

House Renovation Ideas – Designs and Plans  –  It’s all about planning SMART!

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