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Consider how you use your home and how it can best support the way you live now and in the future.
If you need to extend
Reconfiguring the internal layout of your home can dramatically improve the use of space, while changing elements like windows can make a big difference to comfort levels.
Speaking to your neighbours
An informal chat about the nature and duration of work well before you begin work can create goodwill and opens lines of communication with your neighbours.
Planning permission
Some alteration and extension projects can be undertaken without the need for planning permission. These are referred to as permitted development rights. Read more about applying for planning permission here.
Your budget
Before starting your project it is important to establish your budget. Request quotes from at least three contractors, using a list of everything you would like to be included in the project. Compare quotes item by item, and check if VAT is included. As all of the alterations in this document can be done on a sliding scale of costs, it is important to do your own research, and ask your chosen contractor about available options.
Timing and duration
Try to plan around the seasons, as weather plays an important factor in any building project. Take advantage of the darker, wetter months to design and plan your project, so that construction can commence in spring or summer.
Home insurance
An extension or alteration may increase the rebuilding cost of your property, which could affect the policy premium. Speak to you insurer early to find out if your current policy covers any works.
Hiring an architect
It’s a good idea to appoint an architect where a project requires planning permission. They can oversee the works and ensure that the project suits your needs. You can find a local architect here on the RIBA website. It’s a good idea to ask for recommendations for a building contractor and, if possible, visit completed projects beforehand.
Rear extension with timber roof structure in Walthamstow (Studio Verve. Photography: Romain Forquy)
Aims and future needs
Consider how you use your home and how it can best support the way you live now and in the future.
If you need to extend
Reconfiguring the internal layout of your home can dramatically improve the use of space, while changing elements like windows can make a big difference to comfort levels.
Speaking to your neighbours
An informal chat about the nature and duration of work well before you begin work can create goodwill and opens lines of communication with your neighbours.
Planning permission
Some alteration and extension projects can be undertaken without the need for planning permission. These are referred to as permitted development rights. Read more about applying for planning permission here.
Your budget
Before starting your project it is important to establish your budget. Request quotes from at least three contractors, using a list of everything you would like to be included in the project. Compare quotes item by item, and check if VAT is included. As all of the alterations in this document can be done on a sliding scale of costs, it is important to do your own research, and ask your chosen contractor about available options.
Timing and duration
Try to plan around the seasons, as weather plays an important factor in any building project. Take advantage of the darker, wetter months to design and plan your project, so that construction can commence in spring or summer.
Home insurance
An extension or alteration may increase the rebuilding cost of your property, which could affect the policy premium. Speak to you insurer early to find out if your current policy covers any works.
Hiring an architect
It’s a good idea to appoint an architect where a project requires planning permission. They can oversee the works and ensure that the project suits your needs. You can find a local architect here on the RIBA website. It’s a good idea to ask for recommendations for a building contractor and, if possible, visit completed projects beforehand.
Rear extension with timber roof structure in Walthamstow (Studio Verve. Photography: Romain Forquy)
Rear extension with timber roof structure in Walthamstow (Studio Verve. Photography: Romain Forquy)