Adding an extension to your home is a great way to add character to a property or provide the family with more space. While extensions come with their own set of stresses, the process is much less stressful than moving home, making it an ideal choice for those who are happy with their current location or property.
There are several places you can extend your home. Adding a porch or another room to the back of the house, for example. Alternatively, you might be extending two stories of the house or adding an additional level to a bungalow.
Whatever your plans, this guide will share with you the initial steps for adding an extension to your home.
Ask for permission
Before any work is done, you need to apply for planning permission. Applying can be difficult to navigate as a beginner, so it’s a good idea to consult an architect or specialist who is aware of the authorities within your area. You need planning permission for several different extension types, including if you are increasing the overall height of the building, extending towards the street, or even planning to use different materials to the original build.
Structural stability
Any extension needs to meet building regulations in your area. This relates to everything from structural stability to foundations and windows. When designing your extension, you should consult a structural engineer to help calculate everything so your project will be structurally sound. This isn’t the sort of thing you want to find out later in construction.
In order to have your extension approved, you will need to submit designs to the local authority that deals with building regulations. They will likely then come to do an inspection of the area before you can start.
Extend the space you’ve already got
Depending on the type of property you own, there may be an opportunity to skip the paperwork and extend within the building itself. At Touchstone Lofts, found at Touchstonelofts.co.uk, you can seek expert advice about how you can convert your attic into usable space.
Whether that’s for a home office or another bedroom, adding a room to your property, without the huge added costs of planning permission and building, can not only save you a pretty penny but also add value to your home if you end up selling.
Call in the experts
While some people might prefer to keep a keen eye on construction, there is always the option of hiring someone to do it for you. Project managers can help plan and organize the project, as well as manage the day-to-day work, so you have one less thing to worry about.
Instead, you can go about your day – working or taking care of the house – and at the end, enjoy your fully completed extension. Of course, project managers, designers, and builders all cost, so this might not necessarily be something everyone can afford.
While we can’t tell you exactly how to add an extension to your home, this should hopefully give you a better idea as to what is involved. The first integral part of any renovation is to understand what options are available – both spatially and legally.
