House Extension

For most of the people, brick and block is the preferred construction method. Whenever someone wants to build an extension, they use this construction method. However, instant home extensions (prefabricated extensions) are becoming more popular these days.

Off-site methods feature some form of steel or timber frame modular structure. These frames are manufactured in factory-controlled conditions. There are a number of exceptional options available, and all of their components are developed in a workshop and then assembled on the property. But which one is right for you?

Types of Instant Home Extension

There are lots of options available depending on what kind of extensions you want. We will recommend you to be open-minded when selecting a construction system. Get all of the options available on a table. Various factors determine the method of construction, such as design goals, costs, site logistics etc. Using these factors, you can evaluate which instant home extension is suitable for you.

When you choose a premanufactured extension for your home, it is essential to take the precise measurement for the design stage to ensure it fits accurately with the building. If you are going to use a different material than your property, then it is likely that both of them will expand or contract at a different rate. In such cases, the manufactures have to make a movement gap between both materials to accommodate any thermal movement.

Whether you want loft conversion or extensions, these instant home extensions provide tailor-made structures according to your specifications. Each company offers a complete package with external and internal walls, floorboards, and roof.

Every project is unique, so external finishes whether a render or cladding, they can be applied in the factory. A company put together an entire structure and then move to the position on site.

Advantages of Instant Home Extensions

So, what are the advantages of modular extensions? First of all, homeowners can expect swifter construction time. They do not need to wait for the construction to complete as all the work will be done off-site. They just need to wait for a house extension to be lifted into position by a crane.

If you need loft structure like this with a new roof, you just need to wait for three or four weeks. After that, a short period to put it in place rather than months. There is also an advantage that you do not need to move out during the construction, which can help you save money which is you are going to spend on rental property.

Furthermore, these types of construction cost much less than conventional methods. Because the companies of the design and build quotations with a fixed price for a project. Moreover, you can expect a high degree of accuracy in off-site conditions.

Building

One of the factors that can affect the building process is access to the site. The company can build an extension in the factory, but it is challenging to transport the module to the desired location. It requires substantial planning, approvals and consents.

For example, you may need to block the road for a crane; for this, you need permission from the local authority. Furthermore, the size of the crane can limit the maximum size of the module. That is why; many companies build modules in parts and join them together on site.

Another thing that matters is how close a crane can get to the home. It is a crucial consideration before a company starts the project. They need to consider this because it is an essential factor before beginning work.

Sometimes a load of a modular extension is more significant than a crane can handle. In such cases, it is required to reduce the weight of the structure by leaving the roof tiles. Once the structure is in place, the tiles can be added in the next few days.

Next factor to consider is the cost of instant home extensions; you may need to pay for the premium material and short time on site. However, it is less than the money you spent on labour, scaffolding and other things.

When we talk about the cost of modular extensions, it includes design, engineering, and planning to finish a project. A typical instant home extension can cost around £2,000 per square meter. The cost can increase or decrease depending on the size, roof, material and finishes.

No doubt building such extension takes less time, noise and mess on site. These advantages are beneficial for both you and your neighbours. Furthermore, you do not need to move out until the construction is complete. A straightforward loft conversion can take up to four weeks to complete. The reason is that the contractors do not need to be on site. These are some of the reasons that prefabricated extensions are getting so popular in the UK.

Getting an extension can be complicated; there are lots of costs and rules and regulations. You need to understand that there are lots of factors that affect the house extension cost. We have seen many people get beyond their budget while getting an extension. Hence, it is essential to get a clear idea of the cost before you start working. There is a house extension cost calculator available on the internet, but these are just average values, and they rarely update the database.

House Extension Cost

As with building a new home, the cost of an extension varies depending on your needs. A simple design with necessary materials is cheaper. However, the cost of the kitchen extension, Single Storey Extension, and Two Storey Extension can differ from each other even if you are using the same design and materials.

Another factor that can affect your budget is the location of your home. If you are living in central London or anywhere near then a home extension will cost more. So, keep this important thing in mind while making a budget. However, it does not mean that there are no rules for estimating the cost. Following are some average numbers for each kind of extension. These are just average, but you can get a general idea about how much does an extension cost.

Single-Storey Extension

It depends on the size of the single-storey extension. If we talked about the average in 2019, the cost could be anywhere between £1,350 and £2,000 per square meter. However, the average cost in the South East and London was between £1,800 and £2,3000 plus per square meter. These prices are for a useful quality extension, which means there is a room for saving some money.

If you just need an essential extension, then the cost will be a lot less. For example, you are looking for a 5m x 5m extension, then you can expect to pay around £31,500, but in London, it can go up to £49,000 plus. Keep in mind that we have not yet added the fees for architectural services providers, building regulations, planning permission, project manager etc.

Two-Storey Extension

So, what about a two-storey extension in the UK? If both of the stories are of the same size, then you need 50% extra to add another storey. For example, if single-storey house extension costs you £39,000 then adding storey will cost you £58,500. You also need to add VAT and other professional fees and the total cost of a two-storey extension will be around £76,050.

Bathroom or Kitchen Extension

When we talk about a Kitchen Extension and bathroom, things are a bit more complicated. There are lots of things such as planning permission and plumbing that can affect the cost.

If you want a bathroom, then add £5,000, but this can cost higher depending on the finishes and what you want from the bathroom (shower, bath, toilet etc.). However, the Cost of a kitchen Extension can go up to £10,000. Keep in mind that it is the cost of a basic kitchen- a fancier one is pricey.

Bungalow Extension

I hope you get an idea about the house extension cost, but what if you own a bungalow? What you need to expect to pay for getting an extension. Do not worry! The cost of the bungalow extension is the same as a single-storey extension.

Up in the Attic

There was a law for maximum ceiling height. However, it is not applicable anymore. But you still need to maintain a practical height for the ceiling. You should keep this mind, especially for a cellar and attic conversion. Most of the people choose a height of 2.1m to 2.4m.

Finishing

We have already explained that finishing can add to the cost of a kitchen and bathroom extension. If you are good with simple walls, floors and lighting, then you can save some money on finishing. But if you want premium stuff like flooring, tiling, joinery etc. then the cost of an extension will increase. So, keep this in your list while estimating the cost.

In short, you need to keep in mind the things that you want in an extension.

Windows

Another important thing that people miss while calculating house extension cost is windows. I know they can be expensive, but these are an essential part of some extensions. Bigger the window, more prominent will be the cost. Furthermore, the glazing and insulation also add to the cost of windows.

Additional Costs

While calculating the prices, do not forget about other costs. You can get the help of a builder to help you factor any extra cost. These factors are as follows:

• Type of the soil which requires unique material and techniques
• Change in the existing structure
• Access to the site.
• Moving gas meters, pipework, and drainage will cost more and require extra planning.

Home extensions are the best way to increase living space in your house. Sometimes, we get emotionally attach to a home and find it difficult to move in a new one. On the other hand, your family is getting bigger, and you need more space for them. Hence, extending an existing space is the only way to stay in the current home. Furthermore, it is also an excellent way to increase the value of your home if you are planning to sell it in the future.

In this article, we are going to talk about some tips and the paperwork you need for an extension. It is a tedious process, but, on the other hand, it has some benefits. So, we will discuss all building a home extension. Moreover, we will discuss the different steps involved in the planning and building process.

Home Extensions – Checklist

Following is the checklist of the steps you need to take before adding an extension:

Planning Permission

People who are new to adding home extensions do not know about planning permission. It is a legal barrier that you need to cross before starting work. You need to get planning permission from the local council. It is a lengthy process that can take a couple of weeks, so it is better to apply in advance. Another thing is to talk with neighbors to resolve any issues to save quality time. You need their signatures on the party wall agreement. These kinds of things can cause significant delays in the projects.

Furthermore, you need to find a good builder and a design. No matter, you are having a Kitchen Extension or conservatory extension, you need an architectural services provider and a builder, you can trust. Tell them all of your needs so they can provide you with a good design of the extension. You should finalize the design before applying for planning permission. If you want any change after the approval, then you may need to submit it again to the local council.

Some of the extensions do not require planning permission. However, we recommend our clients to apply to avoid any legal complications during the work.

Contracts

It is essential to read and understand the contract before signing it. If you are unable to understand, you can get legal advice or can ask the contractor. You also need to make sure which type of contract you are signing.

If it is a fixed-time contract, then the start and finish date should be mentioned. Another thing to know is your rights if something goes wrong. Also, make sure that the builder has insurance coverage for theft and damage during construction.

Construction

You should keep all the documents such as planning permission, party wall etc. in a file. Also, keep a record of all the receipts, contracts, and plans related to the project. Track the progress of the project and stay in contact with the contact managers, builders, and surveyors throughout the construction process. It is the only way to make sure that the project will complete in a specified period.

Sometimes, the owner lives far from the construction site, and a daily visit is not possible. In such condition, keep in contact with the office of the builders through the phone. Ask the phone number of the builders, surveyors and project managers to get updates about the project.

However, we will recommend you to visit the site twice in a week and report any defect to the project manager. They will not charge you for any fixes until the project is completed.

Home Extensions ideas

We need a home extension when we need more living space for our family. There are various types of home extensions; each one has some advantages as well as disadvantages. Following are some house extensions ideas for you:

Single-Storey Home Extensions

If you are looking for the most cost-effective home extension, then the single-storey extension is for you. In this extension, we build a house in the rear or side of the house.

Multi-Storey Extension

The multi-storey extension can help you get extra living space. However, it costs more than a single-storey extension. Furthermore, obtaining approval for this type of extension is difficult. You can choose to maximize the space of the existing room or can add new places to different floors.

Adding A Storey

You can also choose to add a storey above the home. Getting approval for such an extension is secure and can double the space in your home. It can also increase the value of your property. However, it is an expensive option.

Adding Space Underneath

As the title implies, you add more space underneath the house. These types of extensions require structural changes so that they can be extremely costly.

Last Words!

There are plenty of ways to get some extra living space in your home. Which extension works best for you depends on your requirements and most importantly, your budget.