Adding an extension to your home is a popular way to increase space and add value to your property. With the hassle and costs of moving house โ from legal fees to stamp duty โ the reasons to stay put and improve your existing home soon mount up. Here are some useful tips for getting started on your extension plans:
Permitted development and planning permission
You can extend the rear of your home without planning permission in certain circumstances. For example, you can extend the rear wall of a detached house by 6 metres if it is single storey, or by 3 metres if it is double storey. You can also extend the roof of your home, but not so that it extends beyond the existing roofline. You will need planning permission if the extension is more than half the area of land around the original house. It should also be built with similar materials as the existing property. However, regardless of the situation, you should contact the person who works in these matters in your area to avoid unnecessary trouble.
Building regulations
Whether or not you need to apply for planning permission, before starting any renovation project you should check whether any building regulations are involved and make sure that the person who carries out any work can either self-certify it or liaise with local Building Control Officers to have their work officially certified.
Your home insurance cover
Before starting a project, it is important to contact your insurance provider to let them know. The extension will likely increase the rebuilding cost of the house.
Your neighbours
Building projects can be a source of conflict between neighbours, particularly if planning permission is required. It is a good idea to notify them well in advance.