A Logical Extension: Preparing To Add To Your Property

Whether you’ve just moved into a property or you are looking to turn it into something that is is more to your style you can do the little things like makeover your garden or create better curb appeal. But if you have the finances, extending the property is something that takes you towards your dream home quickly. Building an extension is a significant undertaking, and with this in mind, what do you need to know to make the transition go smoothly?

Understanding The Layout

We’ve got to have a very specific vision of what we want. One of the big problems that people have throughout any renovation project is that they dilly-dally and don’t understand what it is they really want. It’s far better for you to have a crystal clear vision because this will help the builders and it also means you will have gone through the difficult process of realising what you really want out of your dream property. The great thing is that now you can make the most of architectural drawings and have a mockup of your layout to see how it would look. As soon as you get your ideal vision of the layout this will make for a smoother process all-round.

Understanding The Limitations Of Your Current Property

When you liaise with the contractors they will tell you what you can and cannot do. If you plan on building foundations within 3 metres of the boundary wall, you will have to comply with what is known as the Party Wall Act. But you also need to give consideration to the soil conditions of the site, if there are any surrounding trees, as well as natural problems, such as a history of flooding. When you start to layout the ideas you’ve got to be somewhat malleable, especially if there are very specific limitations to the property that will prove detrimental over time.

Planning Permission Problems

One of the most frustrating components of getting an extension is about whether you can get away with planning permission or not. In most cases, you may be able to build your extension under what is known as Permitted Development (PD) but in order to meet these criteria, there are considerable rules that you have to follow. For example, the extension can’t result in over half the garden being covered. If you are planning a significant extension it is very likely you will need planning permission. As a result, this process can take some time, and submitting an application at the moment costs £206.

Staying Sane Throughout The Process

For anybody that’s undergone significant renovation work, they will know just how frustrating it can be. Extending a property can take months, if not years, and it’s down to having the right builder but also having time being on your side, as well as adequate finances. If you feel that you are stressed out throughout the process there is no shame in getting away from the process from time to time. 

It is something that can bring you towards your dream home but in order to prepare it adequately, there are so many variables to consider.