Starting your new house extension requires careful planning and thought, despite your excitement. The more thorough your planning, the more successful the final outcome will be. Before beginning to eagerly select soft furnishings and paint colors, there are numerous other crucial factors to consider beforehand. In this blog, we will be exploring the important factors to consider for drawing plans for house extensions in London.
Factors to Consider for the Drawing Plans for Your House Extension in London:-
[1] Time
It can take several months to complete a properly planned and constructed extension from design and planning to finish. The typical timeline includes 4-6 weeks for survey and design, 8-10 weeks for planning applications, 4-6 weeks for working drawings and approval, and 2-4 weeks for project tendering, and build time thereafter. You might begin the planning process, and then realise that a design change is necessary which could potentially lead to delays of weeks or even months until an alternative is proposed. Competent construction companies and architects are able to anticipate potential problems and are prepared to resolve them proactively. If you plan to begin your project during the summer, it is advised to commence the planning phase well in advance and secure a builder to ensure they can start at your desired time.
Another aspect to take into account regarding timing is if the project requires sequential completion. This could be crucial if you reside in your home while construction is ongoing. Factors such as weather conditions and resource availability are additional considerations that may hinder progress. It may be necessary to order specific materials well ahead of time, so effective communication with your construction company is crucial.
[2] Cost
Cost is one of the most important things to consider when it comes to house extensions. Your new house extension could cost approximately $130,000 for a ground floor extension and $250,000 for a second storey extension, depending on the scope of work. Though it may seem like a substantial investment, adding a house extension can greatly increase the value of your home and elevate your quality of life.
[3] Properly Navigate Site Constraints
Site limitations, such as historical structures or protected zones, may present distinct obstacles for your expansion endeavor. With the help of a licensed architect, you can easily overcome these challenges, ensuring that you meet all regulations while still realising your vision. Professional advice is essential for a successful home extension project, whether it involves protecting listed buildings or minimising harm to protected trees.
[4] Make Sure to Discuss Planning Permission
Just like site limitations, obtaining planning permission can present distinctive obstacles for your home extension. Certain types of house extensions, like certain loft conversions, need planning permission, while others do not and are considered permitted developments. You can find additional information on this topic on the official government site and on blogs like the one linked here. Before proceeding with your home extension plans, it's important to determine if you will need to seek planning permission, as this may cause problems in the future. Certified architects, like Extended Ideas, can offer guidance on whether your house extension needs planning permission and assist in obtaining it if necessary.
[5] Building Regulations
Even if your extension is exempt from needing planning permission, you still have to adhere to building regulations. Building codes guarantee that all changes made to your home's structure comply with essential safety and health guidelines. Building codes include various factors, including insulation, ventilation, fire safety, and accessibility. It is crucial for your builder to be knowledgeable about the applicable building regulations and to adhere to them during the construction phase.
[6] Establish Your Budget
Before discussing with architects and contractors, determine your budget limits. Maintaining a transparent budget will ensure that plans remain realistic, enabling professionals to provide guidance on expenses and feasible options for your project. After receiving quotes, make sure to compare each item to ensure you are getting the best value for your money - don't forget to check if VAT is included in the prices. Make sure to include a contingency of 10-20% in your projections for home extensions, as they often present unforeseen problems.
Attributes of a Top Planning Drawing Agent:-
They will be eminent in the building market
They will provide wide range of services
Bottom Line:-
Adding an extension to your London home is an excellent way to increase both space and property worth. Nevertheless, it is crucial to thoroughly evaluate all the essential factors including planning approval and construction codes, as well as financial constraints and architectural designs. Collaborating with a skilled and trustworthy planning agent can guarantee the accomplishment of your home expansion endeavor. Get in touch with CB Planning Agent, top planning agent in London for the drawing plans of your house extension.
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