The Simple Guide to Expanding Your Home

The Simple Guide to Expanding Your Home

Guide: We are all well aware of the reasons why many people consider expanding their homes. This choice could be instead of moving or just a decision separate from other alternatives. There are many reasons why extensions are more economical than moving. The costs attributed to this process may include stamp duty, legal fees, and other associated fees and charges. This is all the money that is simply lost. When making calculations of such costs, there is often a clear alternative to avoid them and still gain the necessary extra living space. Where do you start?

A good starting point is the consideration that you want to ensure that whatever you build yields a return on your investment. While it can be easy for your family to expand the space, it's always wise to make sure the space you add provides a return. What else should you think about?

It is good to always think practically. If you add more bedrooms to your home, you should also consider additional bathrooms. If you're planning a two-story extension, you should also consider access to the extra space above. Are you increasing the size of your property so much that you should also consider parking extra? These are all elements that must be carefully considered before submitting a planning request.

The cost of your extension increases as it expands in size. There are guidelines for the average cost per / m2. These can range from £ 1000 to £ 2000 depending on the prep work required and finish. The higher the specification standard, the more you pay. It's also important to remember that if you're considering a two-story extension, it won't cost much more per square meter. Why is this? The cost of the foundation and roof is required for a one-story extension. Adding an extra floor means adding walls and floor joists, but some of the extra costs can already be allocated to the costs already agreed for a one-story project.

Planning permissions may not always be necessary for your expansion project. However, it is always wise to seek advice on this. You may think that your plans fall under the permitted development rights umbrella, but it is important at this stage not to make assumptions. It may slow down the process somewhat, but the peace of mind you get from going through the right channels is well worth it. There may be individual provisions about your property or adjacent properties that you are not aware of.

Later on you will also need support in meeting building regulations. These form a separate process for planning permissions and are required for construction projects. These rules have simply been formally agreed to ensure that minimum design and construction standards are met. Representatives of local authorities will visit the property regularly to ensure that the work completed meets these standards.

Rest assured that your chosen builder will be able to assist and support you at every stage of the preparatory work and beyond. Time invested in finding a reputable local builder will generate dividends as much of the worry is removed. This guide has been compiled as a starting point for your construction project. There are many elements to be taken into account, but a well-informed approach is always advisable and will inevitably deliver better finish quality.