Extending: Four Key Stages a Homeowner Should Know.

Considering a home extension or attic conversion requires careful planning. These projects can enhance your living space, increase property value, and improve quality of life.

Contact me for a free, no-obligation discussion about your ideas. We can explore design options, budget, and potential challenges. With my expertise and guide, you'll make informed decisions to achieve your dream home.

I'm here to support you every step of the way.

Don't hesitate to reach out and start this exciting journey.

To better understand your home and your improvement objectives, please provide the following information. This will enable us to discuss further, after which I will send you a written confirmation of my fee proposal for architectural services.

• Please confirm your full name and address, including postcode.

• Provide your phone number and email address.

• Offer a summary of your goals.

• It would be helpful to know your maximum budget.

• If available, email any existing drawings of your home. These may include basic plans from an Estate Agent or documents from Building Control/Planning Service if a previous application was submitted.

Architectural Fee Proposal:

Following an understanding of your project specifics and ideas, I will provide you with a written Fee Proposal via email. This document will outline my fees, the various project stages, and any additional costs or expenses that may be necessary.

Additional costs vary depending on the project and may include the following:

• Builder's estimate (no charge) or Quantity Surveyor's estimate (£150 - £300). You may require a construction cost estimate from the design drawings before proceeding to the next stage.

• Structural Engineer's Fee (Payable to an Engineer if structural calculations are necessary)

• Planning Application Fee (Payable to your local Council, £347.00)

• Building Control Plan and Inspection Fees (Payable to your local Council; the cost varies, and I will confirm. Estimate £200 - £350 for an extension)

• SAP Energy Calculations. Payable to others, approximately £150. Required only if Building Control requests this.

• Large Scale Vector from Ordnance Survey (£65.00) used to prepare the Site Location and Block Plans (Required by both the Planning Service and Building Control)

• Interior 3D Visualisation design drawings of your space. Optional and payable to others.

• Landscaping Designs including planting and paving. Optional and payable to others.

Extending: Four key stages a homeowner should know.

STAGE 1: MEASURED SURVEY & PREPARING EXISTING DRAWING

Upon acceptance of my written Architectural Fee Proposal, I will conduct a comprehensive measured survey of your residence, typically requiring 2-3 hours. Subsequently, I will generate existing plans and elevations utilising the latest CAD software.

During the survey, I will also capture numerous photographs to aid in the creation of the existing drawings and the subsequent development of the Design Proposals.

STAGE 2: DESIGN PROPOSALS

Please email me your wish list, including your maximum budget, essential items, and any additional preferences, should space and budget permit. This wish list will serve as the foundation for developing initial design proposals and initiating our discussions.

There are often multiple ways to extend a home, with the initial option being adaptable to suit your specific needs. In some cases, additional options may be required. Rest assured that these options can be modified or replaced, and we will continue to collaborate until we identify the perfect solution for you and your home.

Upon completion of Stage 2 (Design Proposals), you may wish to obtain a construction estimate from a builder, which is typically offered at no cost. Alternatively, a Quantity Surveyor can provide an estimate for a fee, generally ranging from £200 to £300.

Regrettably, I am unable to provide building estimates due to the fluctuating nature of construction costs and the unique aspects of each project.

STAGE 3: PLANNING APPLICATION

There are two methods to obtain formal written approval from the Planning Service.

I recommend securing either Full Planning Permission or a Certificate of Lawful Development to ensure peace of mind. This will also confirm compliance with your neighbours and satisfy any requirements from a solicitor should you or your family decide to sell the property in the future.

A Certificate of Lawful Development is generally applicable for small extensions that fall within permitted development rights. Although this application requires the same preparation time, it imposes several limitations on permissible actions and, in my experience, can be restrictive.

I will prepare the necessary planning application documents, including existing and proposed plans and elevations, existing and proposed block plans, a Householders Design Statement (if necessary), and a Site Location Plan.

I will submit and manage the planning application on your behalf, maintaining communication with the Planning Service throughout the process. Typically, a planning application for an extension takes approximately 2 to 3 months once submitted.

STAGE 4: BUILDING CONTROL APPLICATION

This phase entails the creation of comprehensive construction drawings and a detailed specification booklet, both of which must comply with the strict Building Control Regulations.

Additionally, it may encompass a Structural Engineer's design and calculation document.

The drawings and specifications must incorporate all necessary information to meet current construction standards and regulations.

I will oversee the entire Building Regulations Application process on your behalf, coordinating with Building Control and supplying any additional information they may require to secure your Notice of Approval.

These approved drawings and specifications will serve as a pricing package for a builder. Upon finalising construction costs, these documents will also constitute the contract between you and the builder.

IN SUMMARY:

Many clients are unfamiliar with the steps involved in home extensions and loft conversions, often feeling overwhelmed by the process.

To simplify this, homeowners should understand four key stages: the initial survey, design phase, obtaining necessary approvals and the finishing touches that bring the project to life. This guide aims to provide clarity and confidence in navigating these steps.

If you have questions or wish to discuss collaboration on your extension, please contact me. I offer tailored assistance without obligation, providing advice on design, budgeting, or contractor selection. I look forward to helping you realise your dream home.

Thank you, Glenn.

1. No obligation introductory call to discuss your project.

2. Written Fee Proposal outlining all fees and stages.  

3. Measured survey of your home. 

4. Preparation of Design Proposals for approval by you.

5. Planning Application. 

6. Building Control Application. 

7. Selecting the right builder for your project.

8. Support on Site.