Home Extension in London: 6 Tips How To Start

Getting a home extension done is one of the best options you have in London if you don’t want to buy a new property but you are in need of more space. If this is your first home extension project in London, you came to the right place!

Home alteration projects can sound scary and time-consuming, but if you follow some simple steps, your extension journey will be much smoother.

Here are our 6 tips you should know about before you start your home extension journey in London!

1. Do Some Research

As the first step, we recommend doing research on the topic. It is a big advantage if you have some knowledge before you sign up with a construction company.

If you don’t know where to start, we recommend reading our previous articles on the topic:

You can always ask real estate agents or builders to have a clear picture of which extension will add more space and value to your property. If your neighbours have done an extension before, you can ask their opinion on the matter as well.

2. Plan the Budget

Cost is always a factor. The budget depends on a combination of different factors such as size, shape and location.

Extensions in London cost more, but if your property is located in prime areas such as Belgravia, Kensington and Chelsea, Mayfair, Holland Park, Notting Hill etc., it will significantly increase the value of your home, up to 20%.

For a more detailed budget, we recommend contacting a turnkey construction company that can give you a quote for both the planning and the build phases.

Image credits: Pinterest. All credit goes to rightful owners.

3. Check Permits

Not every extension needs permission, but there are cases when you have to apply for it. Every project is different, and you have to know if your project is permitted development or you would need Planning Permission.

Home extensions, in general, are permitted developments (as long as your extension project is within specified parameters) but to avoid any problems, we recommend finding a construction company that offer complete bundles, including advising and helping you with building regulations and assist you with obtaining these documents.

4. Building Regulations

Regulations differ in every London borough, and you will need to comply with the local building regulations.

There are builders that offer turnkey services that handle the entire process of the planning and building, including submitting the right forms to the local councils.

5. Find an Architect and a Builder

Home alterations require professionals who are trained to undertake your project safely and excellently. Architects are in charge of measuring and designing plans.

You have to consider some things when you hire an architect, such as having the necessary qualifications for the job.

Besides the architect, you will need a reliable builder to undertake the construction part of the job. Finding the best contractor in London is not easy.

You need to find a company that can deliver your extension project on time and within budget. If you don’t know how to start your search, read our piece on how to choose the best construction company in London.

Image credits: Pinterest. All credit goes to rightful owners.

6. Project Management

There are more options when it comes to managing your extension job. You can take control yourself and look after the subcontractors and make sure your project stays on time and within budget.

However, this is very time consuming, and if you are looking for a stress-free build, we recommend hiring a project manager to take the burden off your shoulders.

If you sign up with a design and build company, they will assign a project manager and other specialists your project requires.

Takeaways:

Do your research first. Google, real estate agents, builders and neighbours can help you to have a gist about home extension
Planning the budget depends on a combination of size, shape and location. Get a detailed quote from a construction company.
Always check if your extension project is a permitted development.
If you sign up with a design and build company, they will take care of building regulations.
Find an architect and a builder that are reliable and trustworthy.
Decide if you want to manage the project or you will need a project manager to do it.