How to plan an extension that adds value to your home (without breaking the budget)
When extra living space is required, extending may seem like a cheaper option than moving house. However a poorly planned extension can be just as costly. Common concerns when considering construction work at home include the cost, disruption, timeframe and planning.
When thinking about an extension, you first need to decide what you want to achieve from the new space. For example, do you want more natural light, a space that flows better, or simply just more room for a growing family. You need to set a realistic budget which includes professional fees, build cost and furnishings once the build is complete. You should also allow for a contingency of roughly 10% for any unforeseen issues, particularly when excavating foundations.
A local architect that has experience with your area will be able to advise you on planning rules. You may also need a party wall agreement, a build over agreement or special measures may need to be met if your property is listed or in a conservation area.
The best time to engage your contractor is as early on in the process as possible. If you are able to, speak to your contractor before you speak with an architect and have all parties meet on site. The right contractor will be able to give you a good idea of cost implications at an early stage, to stop an architect designing something that is out of your budget. You should always look for a contractor with a proven track record of delivering projects similar to yours. If possible, visit some of these projects and speak with previous clients. You should also look for a contractor who is a member of a trade association like the Federation of Master Builders.
Planning and scheduling is everything when it comes to keeping a project on budget. When speaking to previous clients, make sure that their project was efficiently run and that there weren’t any hidden extra costs. Were the clients kept updated when issues did arise?
When viewing previous completed projects, look out for small finishing details. If pride has been taken in the overall finish, then usually pride will have been taken in the parts of the building you can no longer see.
As an experienced contractor in Sussex and Surrey, we have completed many projects. We always find that discussing costs as early as possible in the design stages is the best way to ensure the success of a project. We are please to offer free project consultations so if you would like to discuss your next project then please contact us.
If you would like to view some of our previously completed projects and read what our clients have to say about their experience working with us then please click here.
