How Do I Put An Extension On My House?

House extensions are a great option for those who are reluctant to relocate but may use more living space because they love their current home and neighbourhood.

Whether you plan to develop upwards, outwards, or to the side, there are a few things you should know before getting started, such as the relevant laws and regulations, the logistics involved, the cost estimates, and the contractors you will be working with.

Home extensions are a common strategy for accomplishing both of these goals. Reasons to stay put and upgrade your current home quickly add up, as the trouble and costs of moving property add up (from legal fees to stamp duty). But how do you even begin?

There is a lot to think about before beginning a home renovation project that involves building an addition, whether it's a single-story back extension, a double-story front extension, a side-by-side front/rear expansion, or a triple-story garage. To help get you started, we take it from the top with pointers on planning rules, building regulations, through to handling the neighbours and finding a builder.

Whether it's for the benefit of the current residents, to provide room for an expanding family or ageing relative, or simply because you want extra space, adding an extension to your home is a great way to do so. Buying a new home can be costly due to costs like stamp duty and real estate agency fees, which can exceed the cost of an expansion in some situations.

The following is a step-by-step guide to the key problems you will face as you progress from deciding to create an extension to moving into the final structure.

What Is The First Step?

Every renovation or construction of an addition, no matter how large or small, necessitates a unique plan. It's a chance to increase the home's worthwhile also making it more comfortable to live in. Thus, it is essential to seek out expert assistance throughout the design phase of the project to guarantee the best potential outcome within the allocated funds. This is the first thing you should do.

Generally speaking, hiring a draftsperson will be the least expensive option, followed by a building designer, and finally an architect. To be more specific, we recommend learning about the work they do rather than the specific professions of the people you would hire. Get recommendations from people you trust, and make sure the designers you're interviewing have handled briefs and budgets like yours before you choose them. Planning for a new look for your house? Look no further! Home Builders is here to help in your dual occupancy builder Melbourne.

Do Home Extensions Increase Value?

Home extensions should be undertaken only if their worth to the homeowner is expected to exceed the whole cost of the work. Assessing the value of something isn't always easy, but looking at recently sold properties in the area with similar features might help.

Remember the local cap and be flexible if you need to make any changes.

House Extensions Must Comply With Building Regulations

The Building Regulations still need to be consulted and complied with even if your home addition is legal under Permitted Development.

The regulations for buildings include minimum standards for things like:

• structural stability
• energy efficiency
• fire protection
• ventilation
• damp proofing
• and other critical features that assure a building's safety.

Most maintenance is not covered by the Building Regulations; however, exceptions include new windows, underpinning, and electrical work. Yet, with the exception of certain new buildings like outbuildings, sheds,and some conser­vators, all new building work, including alterations, must comply with the Rules.

Common Kind Of Work That Need Approval

• Home extensions
• Conversions of lofts
• Internal structural modifications, such as demolishing a load-bearing internal wall
• Baths, showers, and WCs that require new drainage or waste piping
• New heating equipment installation
• new flues for chimneys
• redesigned window openings

Should I Build The Largest House Extension Possible?

Home-improvers often fail to consider the full impact of an extension because they are too focused on the square footage of the project. When it comes to house additions, bigger is not always better. Often, the impression of additional room may be achieved without really increasing the footprint of the home.

This is generally accomplished through astute planning of both the new and existing areas.

Selecting The Best Designer For Your House Extension

Extensions come in a variety of shapes and styles, and you can customise them to your liking.

These include:

• architects
• technicians in architecture
• designers who are experts
• In-house design teams at package builds businesses.

In addition to seeking personal recommendations, you may also search online for architectural firms that have designed projects comparable to your own.

Early Efficiency-Focused Design

It is possible to get significantly better U values and airtightness levels than required by the Building Regulations by concentrating on the extension's fabric.

But, adding a thermally efficient addition to a badly insulated home would not make it cheaper to run overnight, so you should look into enhancing the energy efficiency of the house while the builders are there.

Construction Of A Home Expansion Near Or On A Sewer

You must get in touch with your local water authority before beginning construction on your home addition if it will be built over or near a sewer. Sewers' placement should be deliberated about. If your proposed building addition will be within three metres of a shared sewer (one that serves many properties), a Build Over Agreement will likely be necessary from your local water authority.

When a new manhole is required or a current one must be relocated, these can be very challenging and expensive. Home Builders has the best range of dual occupancy builder services to help you create your dream house.

Planning Home Extension Services

Before starting any work on a kitchen extension, it is essential to choose where your cabinets, stove, and other appliances will go. This will allow for the placement of necessary utilities, such as electricity, ventilation, and plumbing.

If you are planning a two-story extension and need to add a bathroom or en suite, the same rules apply.

Can Your Boiler Handle the Home Extension?

There may not be enough capacity in the existing hot water system to meet the increased demand caused by house additions.

You should calculate the heating requirements of the new addition by thinking about the current boiler's output, the size of the radiators, the capacity of the hot water cylinder, and the reheat time.

Living On-Site May Slow Progress.

It's feasible to stay in the house while it's being expanded, but you'll have to deal with a lot of dust and filth, and the builders may move slowly trying to accommodate your schedule.

You should look into finding short-term housing if you don't feel up to dealing with the inconvenience (short-term rental, motel, or staying with relatives or friends).

Consider Access Limitations.

Your house extension choices may be limited if you live in a terraced house with limited access. It's possible, for instance, that you won't be able to employ a particular building technique, or that you'll have to coordinate with the neighbours to, say, borrow some fencing materials or utilise some of their property as a temporary storage facility.

Connecting The New And The Old

The success of the project depends on how effectively the new addition complements the existing structure. While no laws are set in stone, you should consider whether you want your new home addition to blend in or stand out from the original structure.

Designing An Extension

Finding An Architect

Using an architect is recommended if the project is large enough. There is no rule that states you must hire an architect, even for major renovations and new construction, but some people find it more convenient to do so. You can expect a higher quality end result if you hire an architect, but their costs are often approximately 15% of the total project cost, so be sure to account for that.

Briefing An Architect

When meeting with your architect, it is in your best interest to be as specific as possible about your project goals, timeline, payment schedule, and consequences for missing milestones. You will then receive a contract and an appointment letter from the architect outlining their services.

Calculations From A Structural Engineer

A structural engineer can also give technical drawings & calculations that can be used to apply for approval from the Building Regulations and that will then be used by your construction contractor and architect when the renovation work is being done.

How Many Glazing Can I Install In My Home Extension?

The total area of glass elements in an addition cannot exceed 25% of the floor area of the expansion per Part L of the Building Regulations.

This becomes more of an issue with shorter additions. A set of bifolds, measuring 4m(W) by 1.8m(H) (or 36% of the floor area), might easily consume the entire allowed for a small kitchen expansion, adding perhaps 20m2 of space, and be rejected by building control.
This can be avoided in a number of ways. The first step in calculating the cost of an extension is to subtract the lost window and door area from the total. If you still can't bring your new glazed expansion down to 25%, you'll need to demonstrate that it can achieve the same levels of energy efficiency as a non-glazed extension.

If that doesn't work, you'll need to pay for an SAP assessment to prove that your glazed addition's CO2 emissions won't be any higher than those of a similarly sized compliant extension.

When And What Do I Need To Order?

Most of the building supplies (bricks, plasterboard, etc.) should be ordered by your contractor. Nevertheless, there are a few things you'll want to handle yourself:

• If you have your heart set on a particular kitchen or bathroom fixture, you should verify the lead times and start making preparations months in advance of the installation date. Also, make sure that any orders are placed in your name and not the builders'.
• Lead times for roof windows and doors might be as much as 10 weeks.
• It can be tempting to rush into acquiring new furniture and finishing touches for your dream space, but doing so will not only place an unneeded strain on your finances but will also force you to find space for them in your currently chaotic and crowded home. Your new addition is finished.
• It's important to plan ahead, though, so you don't find yourself sitting on the floor while you wait for your brand-new sofa to come if you ordered it custom or built to order and it takes a while to arrive.

Interior Design 

When everything has calmed down and the site has been approved, you may move on to what some people consider the enjoyable parts. You should finish your planning for the new space's design long before your projected completion date, whether you do it yourself or employ an interior designer to assist you. This will give you plenty of time to make an informed decision on paint colours, furniture purchases, and any custom order wait times. You should definitely wait to acquire a minor until the inside is finished, goods and finishing largely finished so you can see how the main features of the new room(s) appear before committing to any final purchases. You will have plenty of time to perfect the decor of your new home, but it will be difficult to recuperate the costs of any rash purchases you make.

Installers And Tradespeople

If you have a unique need that your general contractor can't fulfil, like finding a great plumber or having your windows and skylights installed by an expert, you may want to look into hiring independent tradespeople in addition to your general contractor.

At the outset of the project, it is crucial that you communicate your preferences to the main contractor. In the event that your primary contractor is hesitant to arrange transportation for people they aren't familiar with, you'll need to take the initiative.

Can We Get More Natural Warmth And Sunlight?

One of the most important things to think about when adding on to an older home is finding ways to let in more natural light and heat, as these features aren't typically associated with solar passive architecture.

If you've lived in your house for a long time, you'll already be familiar with the areas of the property where the sun shines throughout the different times of the day and the different seasons thanks to your familiarity with the north. If you're adding a living room or family room, make sure it faces north to take advantage of the sun's warmth and light. Living conditions will improve dramatically with increased exposure to natural light, and less energy will be needed to provide supplemental warmth.

However, it's important to keep in mind how much direct sunshine the windows will be getting throughout the summer months, especially if they face west and will be receiving afternoon rays. Sunlight flooding a room in the winter is a welcome phenomenon, but in the summer it can make the area unbearably hot. Understanding the orientation, choosing the right glazing, and strategically placing shade features are all crucial at this stage. Again, enlisting the services of a professional architect or building designer can help you get the finest outcomes possible. Finding the right duplex build is an important decision. Check out our range of the best home design constructions at Home Builders. 

Would We Need To Move Out?

Staying in the house throughout an extension increases the value of your home and saves you money, not to mention the hassle of uprooting your life and routine. Sadly, it probably won't be that simple. Extending a house that requires extensive remodelling to the existing structure is disruptive to daily life while construction is underway. There may be a way to stage the project so that you can go from working on one portion of the house to another if this is the case.

It's important to remember, though, that staging a construction project typically increases both the duration of the job and its overall cost.

How Much Time Will It Take?

Can you tell me how long a piece of string is? Only four or six weeks can be all that's needed for a simple and fast extension. Adding a little amount of space beneath an existing roofline, for instance, might not necessitate a complete complement of tradesmen. If you were installing a new kitchen or bathroom, you could expect a similar schedule.

The time schedule is likely to be closer to three to six months, though, given most expansions do include a wet area and provided the extension is of a good size. Extending a large house, especially if doing so necessitates extensive alterations to the original structure (such as adding a second story), can take a long time. In that instance, a time span of six to nine months could be more appropriate.

Conclusion

House expansions are a good alternative to moving if you need extra room. Consider local laws, construction codes, scope, cost, and contractors when considering a home makeover. Create with professionals to maximise the budget. Building designers and architects cost more than draftspeople. House upgrades should only be done if they're worth it.

Building Regulations do not require new windows, underpinning, or electrical work. However, u values and airtightness can exceed Building Specifications if the extension is focused on. Contact your water authority before building a house addition over or near a sewer. Place your cupboards, stove, and other appliances when creating a kitchen expansion.

Architects charge 15% of project costs for large renovations and new buildings. Dealing with an architect requires clarity on project goals, timeframe, payment terms, and late payment penalties. Building Regulations accepts structural engineer drawings and computations. Part L of the Building Regulations limits building extension windows and doors to 25% of the extra floor space. If you can't lower your new addition's glass by 25%, you must prove it's as energy-efficient as a non-glazed one.

Before building a glass extension, get an SAP assessment to ensure its CO2 emissions match a compliant one. Check lead times and begin preparations months before installing a kitchen or bathroom item. Contractors should order most building materials. Avoid sitting on the floor until your personalised sofa comes. Interior design should be finished early, allowing for colour choices, furniture purchasing, and custom order wait times. Try independent tradespeople if your general contractor can't. Inform the general contractor early to fulfil your needs.

Content Summary

• There is a lot to think about before beginning a home renovation project that involves building an addition, whether it's a single-story back extension, a double-story front extension, a side-by-side front/rear expansion, or a triple-story garage.
• To help get you started, we take it from the top with pointers on planning rules, and building regulations, through to handling the neighbours and finding a builder.
• Whether it's for the benefit of the current residents, to provide room for an expanding family or ageing relative, or simply because you want extra space, adding an extension to your home is a great way to do so.
• Buying a new home can be costly due to costs like stamp duty and real estate agency fees, which can exceed the cost of an expansion in some situations.
• The following is a step-by-step guide to the key problems you will face as you progress from deciding to create an extension to moving into the final structure.
• Every renovation or construction of an addition, no matter how large or small, necessitates a unique plan.
• Generally speaking, hiring a draftsperson will be the least expensive option, followed by a building designer and an architect.
• Home Builders is here to help with your dual occupancy builder in Melbourne.
• Home extensions should be undertaken only if they're worth it to the homeowner and are expected to exceed the full cost of the work.
• Even if your home addition is legal under Permitted Development, the Building Regulations still need to be consulted and complied with.
• The Building Regulations only cover some maintenance. However, exceptions include new windows, underpinning, and electrical work.
• Yet, except for certain new buildings like outbuildings, sheds, and some conser­vators, all new building work, including alterations, must comply with the Rules.
• When it comes to house additions, bigger is only sometimes better.
• Extensions come in various shapes and styles; you can customise them to your liking.
• You must get in touch with your local water authority before beginning construction on your home addition if it is built over or near a sewer.
• If your proposed building addition is within three metres of a shared sewer (one that serves many properties), a Build Over Agreement is likely necessary from your local water authority.
• This will allow for the placement of necessary utilities, such as electricity, ventilation, and plumbing.
• You should calculate the heating requirements of the new addition by thinking about the current boiler's output, the size of the radiators, the capacity of the hot water cylinder, and the reheat time.
• The project's success depends on how effectively the new addition complements the existing structure.
• While no laws are set in stone, you should consider whether you want your new home addition to blend in or stand out from the original structure.
• No rule states you must hire an architect, even for major renovations and new construction, but some people find it more convenient.
• You can expect a higher quality result if you hire an architect, but their costs are often approximately 15% of the total project cost, so be sure to account for that.
• You will receive a contract and an appointment letter from the architect outlining their services.
• A structural engineer can also give technical drawings & calculations that can be used to apply for approval from the Building Regulations. That will then be used by your construction contractor and architect when the renovation is done.
• The total area of glass elements cannot exceed 25% of the floor area of the expansion per Part L of the Building Regulations.
• The first step in calculating the cost of an extension is to subtract the lost window and door area from the total.
• If you still can't bring your new glazed expansion down to 25%, you'll need to demonstrate that it can achieve the same levels of energy efficiency as a non-glazed extension.
• Nevertheless, there are a few things you'll want to handle yourself: If you have your heart set on a particular kitchen or bathroom fixture, you should verify the lead times and start making preparations months in advance of the installation date.
• Roof windows and doors' lead times might be as long as ten weeks.
• Your new addition is finished.
• You should finish planning for the new space's design long before your projected completion date, whether you do it yourself or employ an interior designer.
• This will give you ample time to decide on paint colours, furniture purchases, and custom order wait times.
• You will have plenty of time to perfect the decor of your new home, but it will take a lot of work to recuperate the costs of any rash purchases you make.
• Suppose you have a unique need that your general contractor can't fulfil, like finding a great plumber or having your windows and skylights installed by an expert. In that case, you may hire independent tradespeople besides your general contractor.