subject: Things to Consider When Having a Home Extension [print this page] Things to Consider When Having a Home Extension
There are various reasons for undertaking a home extension, which could include welcoming a new family member, building a conservatory to enjoy in the summer or to increase the value of the property. Whatever the reason may be, there are some careful decisions which have to be made to ensure that the project is a success.
Before beginning anything, you must find out whether planning permission is necessary for your project and if so it must be obtained from the relevant authority. Without this it will be impossible not to mention illegal to begin any work on your property. It is also important to discuss your plans with your neighbours to ensure they have no objections, because if they do it can lead to a long and drawn out affair in obtaining planning permission.
Once you have received planning permission, it is time to begin planning the home extension. It is good to have a rough idea of how big you want the extension to be, including rough measurements, which will give the prospective architect or builder an opportunity to quote a correct price. With it being an expensive investment, it is vital that you take the time to look around and find the best builder for the job, which may not necessarily be the cheapest. Asking friends or family for recommendations can be a reliable source and opinions should be sought from them. After selecting a builder that you are happy with, you will then go through the idea with him a draw up the home extension plans, including a contract with a timetable of when work should be completed. Make sure that you are happy with all of the plans before signing anything and don't be afraid to question something which you don't quite understand.
After work has begun, it is important to make sure that the builders are keeping to the timetable and that they are not neglecting their obligations. With the initial work taking place, it is time for the enjoyable part of deciding on the interior. This will include the overall atmosphere created by the furniture and colour combinations. This will obviously vary depending on the purpose of the extension; it could be a bedroom for a child or possibly a conservatory which will have glass panes. Inspiration can be found from various sources on the internet or from home improvement stores which may have in-store examples.
After the construction has finished, it is vital that you thoroughly inspect the work to see if there are any defects which need to be rectified immediately. However if the work is satisfactory, you can begin the interior decoration. Hopefully when it has all been completed, you will have another room for the house, where you can spend time and enjoy. In addition, it should have added significant value to your home if you ever decide to sell.
