With a housing market that doesn’t appear too healthy at the moment, it makes perfect sense to stay where you are. However, you may not take this as good news if your house seems too small. How about a house extension, this is a great idea and not only provides you with extra living space, but can also potentially increase the value of your home.
But before you leap in and get cracking, there are a few things you need to take into consideration before you start.
We’ve managed to put together a few pointers that will help you prepare for that house extension in West Lothian - or wherever you are for that matter.
House Extension Budget
You need to think about this, although it seems a relatively straightforward thing to consider. What is your budget and how much can you afford to spend? Before you get carried away, thinking about what you’re going to be using your house extension for and how big it’s going to be, think about what you can realistically afford to spend first. Think about architect fees, builders quotes and VAT. Once you know how much you can afford to spend, stick to it and don’t go over budget.
How long will it take for your house extension to be built?
It takes time to create a house extension, well it should do if you’ve chosen a good architect and well recommended builders. It can sometimes take many months just to get planning permission, and that’s before you get started on the actual building. Make sure you create a timeframe for the building to be carried out, it’s a good idea to plan ahead if you can and make sure it doesn’t clash with holidays and periods away.
House Extension Planning Permission
You need to factor this in to your timetable, it could take a while. There are certain extensions which don’t need permission, such as a single storey or loft conversion, but anything else probably will. Make sure you get good advice and check all the planning regulations for your area and consult with trustworthy individuals before you go ahead with anything.
Architect?
Does your potential house extension in West Lothian need the expertise and design of an architect? A house extension, whether it’s a loft conversion or a conservatory is a large undertaking. It needs a professional in place to sort it out. It’s not something you can do alone – so don’t even think it’s a do-quickly-DIY job. Make sure you include the cost of an architect and even an engineer into your budget.
What about your neighbours?
Yes, you’re going to have to consider your neighbours and if you’re going to be making big changes to your house, chances are you’re going to have to speak to them about it.
Things to consider are:
Will any alterations you make potentially damage their house?
Will there be a lot of noise (yes), how will this impact on their lives?
Builders – Recommendations
You’ll need a professional building firm and they need to be qualified and trained and belong to a guild of builders and contractors ideally, and also, come with recommendations. It’s good if these recommendations come from friends, builders often get work word of mouth, but only because they’re good.
If you’re hiring an architect then perhaps they’ll be able to recommend someone. Take time in choosing someone and you’ll hit the jackpot at some point and find someone worthwhile. When you do find someone who seems perfect, ask for evidence of previous work and he/she should have examples to show you.
House Extensions West Lothian
If you want to go ahead with your house extension in West Lothian or have any questions then get in touch with us here at JG Joiners and Builders. We have testimonials and evidence of our good work and if you choose us you won’t be sorry.
