This is a must-read guide for any homeowner looking to add a house extension. We cover design, costs, finance, planning, building regulations, and have plenty of inspirational ideas too! (see images below)
Thinking about moving? Why not consider extensions instead? It’s a fantastic way to gain the extra space you crave while staying in your beloved neighborhood. Plus, a well-designed extension by a skilled architect can not only enhance your daily life but potentially boost your property value too.
So, how do you make a home extension a reality? This ultimate guide for homeowners is here to help you navigate all your options. We’ll delve into not only the different types of extensions available but also the finer details of getting your project underway. From planning permissions and building regulations to budgeting and financing, we’ll cover everything you need to know.
Want personalized advice? Simply click our ‘FREE QUOTE’ button (left), log your enquiry and we’ll provide you with a free consultation.
Thinking of Adding Extra Space to Your Home? Let’s Explore House Extensions!
Ready to transform your home and create more space for your needs? House extensions are a perfect way to achieve that.
There are a variety of extension types to consider, each with its own benefits and suitability for different situations. We’ll break down the most popular options to help you decide which might be right for you.
Deciding Between Ground Floor and First Floor
- Ground Floor: Ideal for creating open-plan living areas, kitchens, or spacious living rooms. Perfect if you have mobility limitations or want to better connect your home to your garden.
- First Floor: Adds separate rooms like bedrooms, home offices, or bathrooms. Great for creating extra space for kids or a quiet workspace.
Exploring Different Locations for Extensions
- Rear: A popular choice for expanding living areas like kitchens. Versatile and can be used for additional bedrooms, utility rooms, or even playrooms.
- Front: Keeps your garden intact and can enlarge your living room or create a new ground floor bedroom. Requires more planning scrutiny as it impacts street level.
- Side: Ideal for utilizing unused alleyway space. Creates a compact addition that can transform your property. May not require full planning permission depending on size.
House Extension Costs and Considerations
The cost of your extension will vary depending on factors like type, size, complexity, materials, and location. See the table below for some budget figures you can expect in the current climate (07/2024).
| Rear house extensions | Ground floor: £40000 – £85000 Double-storey: £70000 – £130000 |
| Terraced house extensions | Approximately £1250 to £3100 per square metre |
| Semi-detached house extension | Ground floor: £40000 – £85000 Double-storey: £70000 – £130000 Side of house: £70000 – £130000 |
| Side of house extension | £70000 – £130000 |
| Front house extension | Approximately £1500 to £2750 per square metre. |
The House Extension Process: From Start to Finish
Adding an extension involves several steps, but don’t worry, it can be streamlined! Here’s a typical breakdown:
- Site Visit/Measured survey
- Design proposal
- Planning permission
- Structural engineer involvement
- Party wall notices (if applicable)
- Building regulations approval
- Putting project our for tender and selecting a contractor
Considering an Architect?
While not always mandatory, architects bring valuable expertise to your project. They can create a better design, likely increase your home’s value, and guide you through the sometimes confusing planning and building regulations processes.
The Regulatory Maze: Planning and Building Regulations
Navigating regulations for a house extension can feel overwhelming. The key areas to focus on are as follows:
- Planning permission
- Building regulations approval
- Party wall matters (if applicable)
To achieve the first two, architectural drawings are required which typically take the following form:
- Site plans,
- Existing plans & elevations
- Proposed plans and elevations
- Sections and details (building regulations)
- Foundation plan (building regulations)
- Construction notes/specification (building regulations)
Thinking of Avoiding Planning Permission?
Permitted development rights allow some extensions to be built without a planning application. However, there are limitations and strict design guidelines which we can advise you on, and building regulations drawings are still required to ensure current design and building standards are met.
Extending a Listed Building?
Adding an extension to a listed building is possible, but requires special considerations and listed building consent. Please contact us for a more detailed consultation around potential additions to a listed building.
Party Wall Agreements: Working with Neighbours
If your extension is near to, or shares, a boundary with another property, you will likely require a party wall agreement. Where applicable, we will assist you in the step-by-step process of obtaining this alongside the associated project.
We hope this comprehensive overview empowers you to make informed decisions about your house extension project. If you have any questions or need help getting started, feel free to reach out to us!