Planning an Extension? Here are the Top 20 Do's and Don'ts!

Extension to a dwelling in Belfast by GT Building Design

Constructing an extension is an exhilarating endeavor. It provides the additional space you require in your home without the hassle, stress, and costs associated with relocating. Additionally, it can help you achieve a more open layout and enhance the connection between your home and garden.

Extending your house is a sensible investment, so it's essential to use your budget wisely and realise the outcomes you have envisioned. Additionally, it's crucial to reduce the disruption that a building project inevitably causes.

To ensure your extension project runs smoothly, here are the top 20 do's and don'ts.

DO's

1. DO: CONSULT A PROFESSIONAL

Seek guidance from a professional to understand what can realistically be accomplished within your budget. Choosing the right advisor to help create your plans is just as crucial as selecting the appropriate builder.

2. DO: HAVE DETAILED PLANS PREPARED

Effective design involves creating plans that thoroughly outline all the components your builder must accomplish. The more comprehensive the drawings, the lower the risk of the project going off track and costs escalating.

3. DO: SUBMIT A PLANNING APPLICATION

Is it preferable to steer clear of applying for full planning permission for an extension and opt for the Permitted Development route instead? I would argue against it, as preparing a lawful development certificate takes me just as long as a full planning application and is considerably more restrictive.

4. DO: AGREE ON PRICES WITH EVERYONE IN ADVANCE

A major source of stress in any project is receiving invoices that are higher than anticipated. This can be due to your lack of clarity about your requirements or changes, or your builder not informing you about escalating costs. To prevent unexpected expenses, ensure open communication and clarity regarding any changes to the initial design.

5. DO: MAINTAIN A POSITIVE MENTAL ATTITUDE

Your mental approach to the project significantly influences its impact on you. Even with the best preparation, things can sometimes go awry. Are you a constructive problem-solver, or do you anticipate failure before it occurs? Do you quickly transition from calm to high stress, or can you handle challenges positively and with composure? Manage your expectations—these upcoming months will be challenging, filled with both brilliant insights and some alarms. Embracing the project roller coaster with a smile can make a huge difference. Ultimately, the outcome will always be rewarding.

6. DO: PLAN AHEAD

Think ahead by setting clear goals and creating a feasible timeline.

7. DO: CONDUCT A DETAILED FINANCIAL ASSESSMENT

Review your financial situation, carefully evaluate your budget, and comprehend the potential increase in property value your extension could bring. Always include a contingency plan for the construction phase. While the amount may differ, 10% is a reasonable estimate. You will want to avoid the extra stress of sourcing additional funds during construction.

8. DO: VERIFY INSURANCES

Ensure that the professional you hire for obtaining Planning Permission and Building Control Approvals, as well as your builder, has the appropriate insurance, relevant experience, and can provide reviews from others.

9. DO: REDUCE THE UNKNOWNS

When your builder provides a quote, they compile numerous individual prices for the various small tasks that comprise your project. Every aspect of construction comes with a cost, so it's crucial to have a clear understanding of your project from the beginning. Avoid changing your mind too frequently, as this can greatly escalate costs.

10. DO: CONSULT WITH KITCHEN COMPANIES EARLY

If your project involves a kitchen extension, it's crucial to ensure the layout meets all your expectations. Getting an initial design and quote from a kitchen company early in the design phase is highly recommended.

11. DO: PLAN AHEAD TO REDUCE DISRUPTION DURING CONSTRUCTION

If you plan to stay in your home while the work is ongoing, you should prepare for the disruption. The type of extension you opt for can impact your daily routine, and it’s important to anticipate this. For example, you might consider setting up a temporary kitchen in a different room.

DON'TS

12. DON'T: PAY FOR WORK IN ADVANCE

Trustworthy professionals and builders won't require this from you. Establish a payment schedule and incorporate it into your project's budget.

13. DON'T: CHANGE YOUR MIND

Avoid changing your mind once work has started on site, if at all feasible. Doing so could lead to significant budget overruns.

14. DON'T: AUTOMATICALLY CHOOSE THE LOWEST QUOTE

Professionals and builders who are in high demand might not provide the cheapest quote you get. It's much more important to consider references and reviews from others.

15. DON'T: ENCOUNTER FINANCIAL ISSUES

Ensure that your extension is thoroughly planned, designed, and budgeted appropriately.

16. DON'T: OVERLOOK BUILDING REGULATIONS

Home extensions must adhere to building regulations, so it's important to understand the rules. As a professional I will assist you in navigating these regulations. Building regulations have become more stringent, especially concerning aspects like a home's energy efficiency. To ensure compliance, I will obtain confirmation from Building Control that the drawings and specifications meet the necessary standards before commencing work on site.

17. DON'T: USE UNCONVENTIONAL MATERIALS

Requesting that a professional or your builder abandon their extensive experience to craft something entirely custom or to work with materials unfamiliar to them is not conducive to a seamless project. This introduces uncertainties into your plan, potentially leading to unpredictable costs and scheduling issues. It's important to heed their advice.

18. DON'T: BE UNCLEAR ABOUT WHO'S DOING WHAT

If you're handling specific parts of the project, clearly define your responsibilities with your builder. You might be in charge of tasks like the final fitting out, installing the flooring, or painting and decorating. Make sure to agree on these aspects with your builder.

19. DON'T: NEGLECT DUST BARRIERS

To prevent dust from settling in hard-to-clean areas, consider moving furniture into storage during the project. If that's not feasible, ensure the furniture is thoroughly covered with dust sheets. Additionally, installing dust barriers over doors will be beneficial.

20. DON'T: ALLOW CHILDREN AND THE CONSTRUCTION SITE TO INTERACT

It is obvious that the presence of tools, heavy materials, and extensive activity around your home poses a risk, especially to young children. Maintain a tidy site and ensure tradespeople lock away tools each night. Consider relocating children from the house during the most disruptive phases of the project.

FINALLY

By planning your extension carefully in advance, you can ensure it becomes a significant source of satisfaction for everyone in the house and enhances your property's value.

If you need advice, I'm more than willing to have a no-obligation chat with you.

Feel free to contact me and take a look at the reviews section on my website. Thank you for reading my blog, and I hope you found it helpful. Glenn