Everything You Need To Know About House Extensions
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- 27-07-2023
This article explores everything you need to know about house extensions. From planning and design to budgeting and construction, learn everything you need to know about expanding your living space. Park Building Services And Property Maintenance LTD offer professional builders services throughout Southampton, Andover, Basingstoke and Crawley. Uncover creative ideas, practical tips, and expert advice to make informed decisions.
Is A House Extension Worth It?
Before investing your hard-earned money, it's crucial to evaluate the value that a house extension can bring to your property. Seeking advice from a local estate agent can provide valuable insights into the potential return on your investment.
However, it's important to note that spending £30,000 on a loft conversion, for example, doesn't guarantee an equivalent increase in property value. While adding value is a significant consideration, it's not the sole reason for extending your home. The need for additional space to accommodate a growing family is often a compelling factor.
When planning a house extension, it's essential to navigate the regulations and requirements. Permitted development rights may allow you to proceed without planning permission in some cases. However, it's crucial to consult your local planning authority to ensure compliance with permitted development guidelines.
Additionally, building regulations must be followed to ensure safety, energy efficiency, and structural integrity. Engaging an architect or professional design and build team can help you navigate these complexities. Costs and budgeting play a pivotal role in the decision-making process.
While a well-executed house extension can add significant value to your home, it's vital to have a clear understanding of the financial implications. Assess the costs of materials, labour, and potential unforeseen expenses. Obtain multiple quotes and establish a realistic budget before commencing the project.
The Top Benefits Of House Extensions
House extensions offer two significant advantages that make them a popular choice among homeowners:
Added Value
One of the primary benefits of a house extension is the potential to significantly increase the value of your property. Research suggests that a well-designed extension can add approximately 25% to the value of an average three-bedroom semi-detached house.
While the exact value added can vary based on factors such as location and size, investing in a carefully planned house extension can prove to be a lucrative long-term investment.
By expanding the living space and improving the overall functionality of your home, you can create a more desirable property that appeals to potential buyers.
Built To Your Tastes
Another notable advantage of house extensions is the ability to customise the design according to your specific preferences. Whether you want to maximise a stunning view with a master suite and a balcony or infuse modern elements into a period home with a contrasting contemporary extension, the possibilities are endless.
Skilled architects and builders can work closely with you to bring your vision to life, ensuring that the extension seamlessly integrates with the existing aesthetics of your home. This customisation allows you to create a unique living space that perfectly suits your style and enhances your overall quality of life.
By considering these top benefits of house extensions, you can make an informed decision about whether it is the right choice for you. However, it is important to consult with professionals, such as architects and builders, to ensure that your plans comply with building regulations and any necessary planning permissions. With proper planning and execution, a well-designed house extension can add value to your property while creating a personalised space that reflects your tastes and preferences.
Popular House Extension Ideas
House extensions offer exciting opportunities to transform and maximise the potential of your home. Here are some popular house extension ideas that can enhance your living space:
Rear House Extension
Extending your home into the garden is a common choice for house extensions. Whether it's a single-storey or two-storey extension, this option provides the flexibility to repurpose the additional space according to your needs. By incorporating the right windows and doors, you can maintain an open and airy atmosphere while preserving the outdoor area.
Side Extension
Side extensions are particularly suitable for properties with side alleys, commonly found in Victorian and Georgian-era homes. By utilising these underutilised spaces, you can expand the width of your property. A single-storey side extension can significantly transform a small, cramped kitchen into a spacious kitchen diner, providing a generous area for cooking and hosting.
Single-Storey Extension
Single-storey extensions are versatile and widely seen as kitchen extensions in older properties. These extensions can be built on the side or rear of the house, utilising underused garden space. The design options are vast, and many homeowners choose to incorporate features like French Doors to create a seamless connection.
Two-Storey Extension
For those requiring substantial extra space, a two-storey extension is a popular choice. This type of extension adds room to both levels of your home, offering the opportunity to expand your kitchen, create additional bedrooms, and incorporate extra bathrooms. It is a comprehensive solution for enhancing the character and functionality of your property.
Do I Need Planning Permission For A House Extension?
Determining whether you need planning permission for a house extension is an important consideration when embarking on a home improvement project. In many cases, house extensions are categorised as permitted development, which means you can proceed without obtaining planning permission. However, there are certain conditions that need to be met to fall within the permitted development rights.
Firstly, the size and placement of the extension are crucial factors. The extension should not exceed half the area of the land surrounding the original house (known as the curtilage). It should not be situated in front of the principal or side elevation facing a highway. Additionally, the height of the extension should not exceed the highest part of the existing roof.
For single-storey extensions, there are specific limitations. They should not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than eight meters (for detached houses) or six meters (for other types of houses).
The maximum height allowed for a single-storey rear extension is four meters. In the case of two-storey extensions, they must be set back at least seven meters from the rear boundary.
It is essential to ensure that the design and features of the extension comply with the regulations. The materials used should match the appearance of the existing house.
Verandas, balconies, and raised platforms are generally not permitted. Any upper-floor, side-facing windows should be obscure-glazed, with the opening positioned at least 1.7 meters above the floor.
It's important to note that flats, maisonettes, and properties located in designated areas, such as Conservation Areas or those listed as historic buildings, may have different planning restrictions. It is advisable to consult with your Local Planning Authority to confirm the specific requirements and regulations that apply in your area.
By adhering to the permitted development guidelines, you can proceed with your house extension project without the need to obtain planning permission. However, it is always recommended to seek professional advice and consult with your Local Planning Authority to ensure compliance and avoid any potential issues.
Do I Need To Hire An Architect For A House Extension?
Determining whether to hire an architect for your house extension depends on several factors. Here are key considerations to help you make the decision:
Impact on Structure: Major projects that involve structural changes or modifications to your home, such as extensions or conversions, often benefit from an architect's expertise. They ensure compliance with building regulations and add a level of safety to the project.
Design Assistance: If you're unsure about the design direction or need creative input, an architect can provide valuable ideas and expertise. However, if you have a clear vision or a trusted builder, their involvement may be less necessary.
Project Management: Managing a building project can be complex. An architect can act as a project manager, overseeing the construction and ensuring everything stays on track. They can also navigate planning permission requirements if necessary.
Alternative Professionals: In some cases, an architectural technician or designer may be suitable for smaller-scale projects, offering design skills at a potentially lower cost.
Consider these factors to determine if hiring an architect is essential for your house extension. Remember to adhere to planning permission and building regulations for a successful and compliant project.
Structural Changes
Design Assistance
Park Building Services And Property Maintenance LTD offers a thorough list of building and property management services to domestic and commercial properties. Contact us today, and we’ll provide a free quote and any information you need.
