Home extensions and renovations Extensions: planning what you want
Try to make your new room look like it was always there
Deciding to build an extension is a big decision and you should first decide if there are other, cheaper ways to create more space.
However, if you do decide to build an extension it can transform your home and add value to your house.
To find out how much an extension will cost visit Which? Local which gives up-to-date pricing for home improvement jobs, including extensions.
Key questions to ask when planning an extension
Do you want a single or double storey extension?
Single-storey extensions: It is usually quicker and more straightforward to gain planning permission for a single-storey extension, follow the building regulations and to build it.
It is usually easier to create access from your existing home to a one-storey extension, and any problems that occur throughout the build tend to be cheaper to fix. It also means that the upstairs will be less affected by dirt and disruption.
Double-storey extensions: This will give you more room and may be cheaper than you might expect, as there is less work involved in creating a second level than the ground floor.
Alternatively, think about creating a single-storey extension with the option to add an extra storey at a later date. If you sell with permission to build a second storey you may get a better price.
Where do you want the extension?
It's important that the property remains balanced upstairs and down, particularly if you intend to sell. For example, if your extension means that you have only two bedrooms, but three reception rooms downstairs, it could be harder to sell.
What should your extension look like?
You need to ensure that your extension blends with your house - it should look like it was always there. For instance, a pitched roof might be more in keeping with the style of your home than a flat one.
You'll also need to ensure the bricks match the existing ones. Some builders or extension specialists may be able to help match the bricks for you. Make sure they don’t charge for this service, though, as the brick companies offer it for free.
Useful websites for finding bricks and tiles include www.hanson.co.uk (has a brick visualisation tool), www.jewson.co.uk, www.build-center.co.uk, www.brick.olrg.uk and www.brickfind.co.uk.
Planning and building regulations for extensions
You will need to contact your local council about planning permission for your extension. It will also need to comply with building regulations, which they can advise about.
The local council is likely to want to keep the landscape as similar as it can, so what might seem a small consideration to you – taking down trees or hedges – can be a major factor in your planning application for an extension.
If you can, when looking at extending your home, try to minimise removing the number of trees and hedges that you have in your garden, particularly any that are near the boundary that faces onto the public highway.
