98 ADDING AN EXTENSION How to get a bigger house without moving

Get a bigger house, without the cost or stress of moving, with a new extension

‘PATIO DOORS ARE A GREAT INVESTME NT FOR YOUR HOME AS THEY CANHELPCREATEAMORE FUNCTIONAL AND VERSATILE SPACE’ MATT AITKEN, DESIGN EXPERT, BENCHMARX KITCHENS

Make the most of unused garden space or an awkward side-return area, by adding a space-boosting, light-enhancing extension to your home. There’s a lot to consider before you take the plunge, starting with whether you can live in the property while the work is carried out. If dust and chaos isn’t your bag, you’ll need to factor temporary accommodation into your budget, too.

Is my home suitable?

Obviously you need space outside to extend into, but equally you don’t want to eat into too much of the garden. Also, if there’s no external access to the site, and going through the house is a no, forget the idea. Public or shared drains and utilities running under your garden may also cause complications and, in some cases, can mean planning refusal.

Do I need permission?

Unless you are planning a large, architecturally striking extension, planning isn’t always necessary, depending on the size of your project. Check with your local council though. Building Control will need to be notified before you start, and all work must comply with current building regulations.

How about the cost?

Use the size of your build to establish a rough guide based on £1,000-£2,000sq m. Factors that will see costs soar include location, complex builds and top-end materials. Do check your existing services can supply a bigger house – a new boiler or fuse board may be required. In older properties, the electrics may need upgrading to ensure the extension complies with regulations.

Who should I hire?

A full design and build service is the least stressful, but priciest, option. Hiring an architect or architectural technician to design the extension and a good building firm to make it happen will be slightly cheaper. Be prepared to wait – the best get booked up a year in advance. You can project manage yourself and hire in trades when needed, but it’s not easy.

Do I need insurance?

Always notify your existing insurer before you start. Unless you employ a building firm with extensive insurance, it’s wise to buy separate insurance to cover the new works and existing structure, as well as public and employee liability in case of any accidents.