Creating a new zone in an existing home for more space is the objective of home extension. The extension adds good value to the property and can turn a humble looking home into a stylish and light-filled home ideal for comfortable living.
Great home extensions need proper planning and deft execution that adds a new dimension to comfortable living by transforming the way you interact with the new environment.
Taking up a home extension project is cost effective because you need not pay any agent’s fees or stamp duty for creating the extra space. You can utilise the budget completely in creating a customised space that addresses your varied needs.
However, you must keep in mind the value addition achieved through home extension, and there must be a good balance in the proposed extension. It must not happen that the plan for extension falls short of the required amenities that make it look like half done work.
The extension must nicely integrate with the existing home which could sometime result in modification of the project to the extent of remodelling the entire house.
Points to Consider When Starting a Home Extension Project
To make the most from your home extension project, you must stick to the checklist below.
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Create a Budget
Create a realistic budget about the extension keeping in mind what you want to achieve and share it with the architect or designer. They can tell you the best things you can accomplish with your money. Primarily, their target is to create the space together with all amenities and then if there is some money left, they would like to use it for delivering the wow factor.
Check if Permissions are Required
A planning application may not be necessary if there is a provision for development as a right in the plan already. The criteria of extension must match with some limits set within the rights with respect to size and height as well as orientation and materials. However, if your plan falls beyond the stipulated limits, you must file an entirely new planning application.
Site Accessibility
How easily you can bring materials and machines at the site determine the cost of the project. If it is difficult to access the site, it will entail more manual material handling involving extra labour that adds to the cost and will take a longer time to complete the project.
Is Drain Relocation Necessary?
Extending home on the side or rear of an existing home might necessitate relocating the drains to make room for the extension. In case it is shared sewerage, like public sewerage, you must obtain permission and enter into an agreement with the water company to allow the relocation. Take this time into account when working out the project timelines.
Protect the Garden
The garden at your home is a valuable asset, and your extension plan must protect it. Depending on the site conditions, think about a vertical extension or creating a basement for extra space.
Finally, take a new insurance policy for the site extension if your homeowner policy does not have provision for it.
