When you are considering having a home extension built, whether it is going to be from the side of your home or the back, the process is going to be a bit tricky!
After all, this is a major renovation and new build in a part of your home, which is going to take time, money and dedication to see through to the end. Not only that, but you will also need to ensure that those who plan the build and put it up are at the top of their fields, or the final result may look bad and drag your property value down.
So, in this article, our structural engineer Croydon at GL Design Services aims to provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to oversee your home extension.
Determine the purpose and scope of the extension
The first step in planning a home extension is to determine what the extension will be used for and what the overall size and scope of the project will be. This will help our structural engineer Croydon to determine what type of extension is needed and what materials and resources will be required. This will also help when you have our structural engineer Croydon design the plans for the extension, as the overall purpose will be merged into the design.
Consult with an architect or builder
It is always a good idea to consult with an architect or builder to get professional advice on the feasibility and costs of the project; they can also develop detailed plans and drawings for the extension.
Get planning permission
In the UK, you will generally need to obtain planning permission from the local council before starting any major home improvement projects, including a home extension. This process involves submitting detailed plans and drawings to the council for review and may also involve public consultation.
The planning process in the UK is designed to be efficient and straightforward, with most applications being processed within 8 weeks. However, it is not uncommon for the process to take longer, particularly for larger or more complex projects or for applications that require public consultation. For home extensions, this is not required.
There are also options for fast-tracking the planning process in certain circumstances, such as if the project is considered to be of strategic importance or if it meets certain other criteria. In these cases, it may be possible to obtain a decision within 6 weeks or less.
Obtain any necessary Building Regulations approval
Building Regulations approval is a separate process from obtaining a planning permission, and it is required for all building work in the UK. This process involves submitting detailed plans and drawings to either a local or private Building Control body for review to ensure that the work meets all relevant safety and building standards.
Hire a contractor
Once the plans for the extension are finalised, it will be necessary to hire a contractor to execute the works on site. It is important that you carefully research and choose a reputable and experienced contractor to ensure that the project is completed to a very high standard, adding value to your home.