Thinking of joining the homeowners who have decided to invest in ways to maximise their space? We found out in our Rated People Home Improvement Trends Report 2022 that extensions, annexes, and conservatories are the home adaptations that will continue to increase in popularity in the upcoming years.
If you’re planning to extend your home, you’re in the right place. Whether it’s to accommodate your growing family or finally create space for your dream entertainment room, there are a few questions you might need to answer before the process begins. That’s why we’ve created our ultimate guide to building a house extension, to help you every step of the way.
1. Start Your House Extension Project by Getting a Planning Permission
Planning permission for extensions is essential to ensure the extension schedule runs smoothly and within budget. The best way to avoid starting your extension without planning permission is by onboarding a professional to help guide you through the process. A reputable builder can immediately decide if external factors or house extension size rules might delay your extension process. Step one of your house extension journey is ensuring the work is structurally sound, expert builder advice early in the process can confirm this.
2. Planning is Everything in A Home Improvement Project
An extension project is a cost-effective way to upsize to a bigger home without the hassle of selling and moving. By removing a few internal walls or extending out you can drastically change the space within your home. During the early stages of your project, it’s important to consider to pause for a moment and consider the following:
- Define why you want an extension
- Choose the right style for you and your family
- Consider your budget
- Start the search for reputable contractors
Once you have the basics defined, think about the time and budget needed for your house extension plans. Deciding if a home extension is worth it depends on your priorities and the desired outcome, consider these factors when planning an extension:
- Location
- Space
- Budget
- Garden size
- Neighbours
- Value of the project
Where to Get The Help You Need
To start and finish a successful extension project it’s crucial to consider these authorities:
- Local Planning Authorities
- Building Control
- Insurance providers
- Trade associations such as the Royal Institute of British Architects
Local architects and builders can help make the most of your space by providing ideas and possibilities you might not have thought of yourself. Designing and planning an extension with the help of a tradesperson can create more adventurous outcomes for your dream space.
3. How to Avoid House Extension Disasters
For major changes to your property, it is vital to consider advice from tradespeople. House extension mistakes and failures are usually the results of homeowners planning an extension without the expertise, techniques, and ideas of an experienced tradesperson. Finding a trusted tradesperson to create a a truly quality extension is made easy on Rated People. Avoid rogue traders and cowboy builders by viewing reviews and recommendations from other homeowners.
Find trusted and experienced tradespeople on Rated People to help you bring your extension dreams to reality.