How to arrange a house extension
In the midst of a crippled housing market and worsening recession, many
homeowners have found themselves in a position where selling their property is
no longer financially viable. As average house prices continue to fall there
remains hope that the market will return to its former highs within the next few
years or so, along with the economy itself. During this time, astute homeowners
and property developers have realised that there may be no better time than the
present to increase the future value of their property by building an extension.
Nevertheless, building an extension is by no means a simple task.
The first point to consider when arranging an extension is that building work
ought to be confined to something that will either increase the value of the
home or create extra living space (or both, ideally). Therefore, the extension
must provide a particular purpose or suit a specific need. In this respect, it
is crucial to recognise what sort of extension would best suit a given set of
requirements, as there is a world of difference between adding an extra storey
to the home and erecting a conservatory. Nevertheless, it is likely that
planning permission will be required before a proposed extension can be
built.
In respect to planning permission, professional advice should always be sought
before proceeding with a build - this will invariably save a great deal of time,
money and heartache. Planning permission will almost definitely be required if
the proposed extension increases the height of the building, covers more than
50% of the existing property area or if it will increase the total volume of the
original building by 10% or more if it is terraced or subject to a conservation
order of some description or another. As aforementioned, always obtain
professional advice for any extension.
With a thought on the planning process itself, it is important to study the
local area to appreciate what sort of designs and extensions may be deemed
acceptable. Starting with a workable plan will obviously be better than
something that will never get off the ground. Furthermore, neighbours must be
considered throughout (they may be involved directly in the planning process
anyway) and it is always useful to agree - within reason - compromises with
those who object to certain aspects of a proposed extension. The planning
process can take around eight weeks.
Assuming permission has been granted, it is crucial that a reliable and
respected architect is hired to carry out the project. The architect will be
able to work on design aspects in addition to ironing out engineering
complications and helping to improve the overall efficiency of the build.
Moreover, the architect will usually prefer to work with a particular team of
builders, which at least gets one little headache out of the way. Indeed, if the
architect is hired to oversee the entire project, costs can be worked out fully
with him (or her) in order to ensure a smooth process (always reserve around 5%
on top of the agreed budget).
Finally, living through the building work is bearable if there are realistic
estimates of the time it will take and what will be involved. This should be
discussed with the architect and builders beforehand, as it may be necessary to
spend some time out of the house, in which case a caravan can be hired for a
couple of weeks or so.
Buildings
insurance is another important consideration for before and after the
extension is completed, which will invariably add significant value to a
property and improve living conditions.
