Planning a Home Extension? Read On! An extension to your home is a great way to add additional space to your property, while adding value. You should not underestimate the scale of this kind of project as it is quite an undertaking. Fear not, as below are seven handy tips you should consider to ensure you get the extension of your dreams. Which Architect? This is probably the biggest decision you will make (besides the actual design of course) and should not be taken lightly. Your architect is your guide throughout the whole process and will let you know what is and what is not possible in the build. You should be as clear as possible with them regarding the design of your extension as they can only solve problems if they know the full details. Ask to see examples of your prospective architects work to see the standard of their designs before hiring them. Planning Permission and Building Regulations Your architect will be able to assist in ensuring that your extension meets local building regulations and will receive planning permission. You should contact your local authority planning department to obtain planning permission. Please note that if your property is a listed building or is in a conservation area, you may not be able to extend your property at all. It is always good to check with the local authority to ensure you are able to complete the project in the way you want. Budgeting To avoid getting a nasty shock upon completion of the project, it is imperative that you keep abreast of the costs. Ensuring that your labour and material costs are under control is something that can be done at the quotation stage. Also important is to work very closely with the architect at the planning stage to ensure you only receive what you want. Some architects will give you the most expensive options if you fail to guide them properly.

Research, research, research! You can never do too much research when planning a home extension, so be prepared for some work on your part. Looking at local examples of extensions as well as previous work your architect and builder have completed will mean you plan the right kind of extension to be completed by the right people. Ensure you have a Warranty As with any purchase, a warranty protects you if you receive a product that is sub-standard. You should ask for details of any warranty offered by both the architect and builders prior to signing the contracts. Failure to obtain a warranty could result in problems with the construction of the extension that may cost a lot of money to put right. Stay in Control You must remember that at every stage of the project, you are the boss. Do not allow yourself to be led by any contractor into doing something you do not want. Being assertive in the planning and building stages means that you will get the extension you want, not the extension that your contractors want to sell you.