You have lived in your home for some time but now it has become too small to accommodate all the members of your family. You need to create an extra bedroom, living room, or kitchen. Perhaps, you want to construct an entirely new apartment next to the main house.
While there are many ways you can approach it, doing a single story extension remains one of the best. However, you need to learn what it takes to extend your home in that manner.
Benefits
• It is much better than having to move to another house.
• You have the freedom to decide the design and layout that best fits your needs.
• You can expand the window space to allow more light into your home.
• Opportunity to integrate the house and the garden.
The Cost
Like any other construction work, the extension will cost you money. So, you need to set aside a budget for it. You will be required to pay the building costs, architect’s fees, structural engineer, surveyor, and so on. The cost will vary based on the size of the extension you intend to make.
Also, the type of room you are adding may increase or reduce the cost. For example, a kitchen extension may cost more than that of a living room. The foundation and roof options also influence the overall cost of the project.
Permissions
Find out from your local council if you need authorization for your project. Also, ask your builder or architect if there are additional things for which you should seek permission.
Even where no permission is required to obtain a license from the local authority for the project. That way, you will avoid getting on the wrong side of the law. The local authority will charge a licensing fee for the project.
What about the Neighbors?
You can talk to your neighbors concerning your upcoming project. If you don’t have a good relationship, try to establish one. After all, you need them to agree with your project. Or, you could hire a surveyor to determine the extent of your project in terms of area.
Size of Extension
It is up to you to determine how big the single story extension is going to be. If you want to drastically reduce the costs, then consider a larger extension. Only ensure that the extension doesn’t eat a large portion of your garden.
That could reduce the value of your home.
You could choose a side extension or a semi-detached house. An architect will help you bring together the plans for the original house together with that of the extension.
To ensure that the value of your home doesn’t go down, think through the whole plan. Will it appeal to future buyers of your home or will it turn them off?
Choosing the Right Contractor
If you want the extension to be up to standard, you should choose a contractor who understands the job. If you have questions about who you should hire, we are here to give you all the answers. Call us today!
