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By: Sue Barnard
Adding an extension to your home is becoming more and more
popular as an alternative to moving house. Ever increasing
house prices and the costs of moving can make adapting your
current home seem an attractive, more affordable option.
However, you do need to think carefully and do some research
to ensure your plans go smoothly. Although you will save
on agent’s fees, stamp duty and removal expenses,
there will be architect’s costs and disruption to
your home.
Why build an extension?
Firstly think about the purpose of your extension. Do you
need more space for a growing family, a home office, a self-contained
area for an elderly relative, or are you thinking of the
extension as an investment to increase the value of your
property? The purpose of your building project will affect
the planning permission you need and your budget. For example
planning a large scale two storey extension will require
a different approach to a small conservatory, and there
is no point installing expensive, luxury fittings in your
new kitchen if you are planning to move in a year or two.
Planning considerations
You should have a good look around your local area. In
particular note whether any of your neighbours have extended
their property and if so how? Do you wish to do something
similar or do you have very different ideas? Your planning
application will have to be in keeping with the area and
is more likely to be accepted if there is already something
similar nearby. All areas have rules and regulations covering
basics such as how close to the house next door you can
build and potential use of the building. However, in some
cases there will be other restrictions such as in green
belt areas, national parks and for listed buildings.
As long as they are done properly most extensions will
add some value to your home. However, the cost of the build
could be higher than the added value. Remember there will
be fees incurred and there is likely to be a ceiling value
for your particular type of property and neighbourhood.
How to finance your extension
How you decide to finance your extension will depend on
the costs involved and your circumstances. However, re-mortgaging
could well be your best option. This means you will pay
off your current mortgage by taking out another. At the
same time you increase the amount you borrow to cover the
cost of your build. It is important to include all fees,
internal fixtures and fittings, decorating and so on in
your budget. Also consider whether you will have to move
into rented accommodation for a short time and allow for
that. Something unexpected will always happen so make sure
you include a contingency fund.
Architects and planning permission
In order to decide whether your plans are feasible you
are likely to need advice from an architect. Contact the
Royal Institute of British Architects for a list of those
registered in your area. Choose several and make an appointment
to discuss your ideas. This type of initial consultation
is usually free but check first. You can outline your requirements,
look at their portfolio to see whether they have worked
on similar projects before, and ask about their fee structure.
You will then be in a position to select the most appropriate
for your situation.
As a minimum an architect will draw up plans to submit
to the planning department. They can negotiate with the
council and hopefully you will obtain planning permission.
However, be prepared for a slow process, particularly if
you are refused at first or there are objections. Once you
have planning permission you then have to submit detailed
technical plans to cover building regulations. Some architects
offer a further service to manage the whole project for
you. This means they will get quotes from builders and oversee
the work in progress. This may save you some worry and hassle
but will be an additional expense.
How do I find a reputable builder?
By far the best way of finding a builder is word of mouth
recommendation. Have any of your friends, neighbours or
family used local builders and if so would they recommend
their services? Alternatively look out for builders working
nearby. They often put out company boards on site. Some
builders specialise in particular types of work, for example
loft or garage conversions, which may be appropriate for
you. Think about whether you want a large company to come
in and get the job done as soon as possible. In that case
you can expect a lot of different people coming and going
all the time, depending on the stage of the work. Alternatively
are you prepared to wait for a two man set up which will
be slower but may be less disruptive? It is a good idea
to get at least three quotes and ask for a fixed price,
otherwise your budget could quickly disappear. Also ask
for timescales and how they will go about the work. Will
they expect you to move out or will they work around you
as far as possible?
About The Author
Sue Barnard writes and publishes guides on managing your
home and running your personal finances. More of her work
can be seen on these http://www.improve-your-home.co.uk
and http://www.homefinance.org.uk websites.
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