10 Top Tips for Planning an Extension to Your Home

Extending your home is a great option to maximize space. Planning your extension carefully can help you save money and ensure that you get exactly what you want once the builders have left.

Building Control is an independent corporate approved inspector, licensed by Construction Industry Council (CIC), who provides Building Regulation approvals for all types construction projects. From commercial space to residential extensions. Ten top tips will help you through the first stages of planning and ensure that everything goes smoothly.

• Find the right architect/designer

1. Ask for references or recommendations to ensure that they are competent with the type of project you expect. You can ask for references to ensure that the person is competent in handling your project.
2. It is ultimately your responsibility to ensure that the building you build is safe. You should make sure you are protected by the designs that a consultant submits.
3. The more precise and consistent the builder’s quote is, the more detailed and accurate the plans and specifications are.

• What is the purpose of your extension?

1. You can get a better idea of the budget and the designer you need by deciding what the extension is for.
2. The more specific you are, the better. Extensions come in many shapes and sizes. Consider who will be using the space, when, and for what purpose, before deciding on the type of home extension in Auckland.

• Budget

1. A typical extension can cost anywhere between PS1,000 and PS2,000 per square meter, depending on the purpose. This is probably one of the biggest financial commitments that people make.
2. You should always allow for a contingency of 10-20%. It is always a good idea to have a little extra money in case something goes wrong. You can be one step ahead by submitting your designer drawings to the quantity surveyor. They will then be able provide you with a cost estimate.
3. You will have to consider the designer/consultant’s fees, government VAT, local authorities fees for applications and of course the builders fees when estimating your budget.

• Speak to your neighbors

1. Your neighbours’ support will help you immensely when presenting your proposal to the council.
2. Your local council will inform your neighbours if planning permission is needed. They can then comment on the plans or object. If they find out about your plans only after receiving this letter, it could cause them to become anxious and submit an objection.
3. By talking through your ideas in advance, you can save time and avoid tensions that arise when dealing with objections.

• Approve your purchase

1. Experts are needed to help you.
2. You can ask them if you need to submit a planning application or any other permits. The requirements of each council will differ. Checking the website for your local council can be a good way to learn about their policies.
3. If you are unsure whether planning permission is needed, you can check the Planning Portal website.
4. We can assist you even if you don’t need planning permission for your extension.

• Research different materials

1. The next step is crucial as it will determine whether your extension succeeds or fails and if you save money on energy bills.
2. Local planning departments will take into consideration the surrounding environment when evaluating the building’s appearance. It is more likely that a building will be approved if it has a material that complements the surrounding area.
3. Certain materials are also more energy-efficient than others.
4. As part of an extension, many people choose to include lots of glass and light. The Building Regulations restrict the amount of glazing in relation to the total floor area because it is less energy efficient than solid walls/roofs.
5. Energy can help you with this by using SAP calculations. They will also be able advise on alternative products which are more energy-efficient. 

• Party Wall Agreement

1. It is to protect the neighboring property from any construction work you do within 3-6 meters of theirs.
2. Learn more about party wall agreements >

• Does your extension have value?

1. Talk to an estate agent in your area about the plans you have. They should be able estimate the value of the property if the extension is added. You should also consider that extensions are possible both up and down.

• Select the right builder
• You have your design, and you are ready to get started.
• When you decide what kind of extension you want, look for a builder who has similar work in their portfolio. Ask for recommendations and talk to the builders.
• Ask for references of recent clients to make sure you and the company are on the same page.
• It is not a problem to get quotes from multiple builders. Prices may vary depending on how detailed the plans and specifications are.
• You will invest a lot of money in alterations to your home. Use a contract and think about stage payments.
• In such contracts, it is not uncommon to keep a portion of the final payment to cover any defects or mishaps. This is something that your designer/architect can advise you on.
• Commit!
• It is important that you are 100% sure of your plans. On paper, it is easier to make changes than on the site.
• Last but not least, have fun! It’s always worth the extra space.

Building Control and Approval in England and Wales

Building Control is a leading building control company in Auckland and Wales. We are approved inspectors who provide a variety of services. Building Control has a wealth of experience in areas such as design proposals assessments, checking of design drawings, inspection systems and certification for the compliance aspect of projects.