The Complete Guide To Single Storey Extensions
The concept of a single-storey extension has become quite popular in the past few decades. This is primarily because they can aid in the expansion of a property with the least amount of hassle. It also goes without saying that it makes for a welcome addition which is practical, increases the value of a home, and also has aesthetic value.
Why would you want a single-storey extension?
Considering that fact that both upscaling and upheavals can prove to be quite costly, adding an extension to an existing property makes for a viable proposition. They not only save time and money but also does away with saying goodbye to an established family home where you’ve created many memories.
It allows more living space, and facilitates the entry of more natural light thereby creating a family environment which is healthier, brighter and airy.
Important points to consider regarding single storey extensions
But there are certain very important practical things to consider when thinking of a single storey extension like:
- Budget: Before even thinking about an extension, it is always better to know the budget which can be used and how much it can be extended. This is because in any building project, small and big, one should always keep extra funds in hand so that it is able to cushion certain the impact of market conditions like rise in the price of raw materials, labour costs etc. There are several costs to consider when setting the budget like:
- + Building cost for facilitating the single storey extension,
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+ Fees that need to be paid to the Architect, structural engineer, surveyor, planning, building control etc.,
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+ Costs of the interior fit-outs etc.
- Planning permissions: The need for the same basically depends on the type of extension that is being facilitated. In fact if the extension is within the parameters set by the rights to permitted development, then planning permission might not be required. But it is always better to obtain a certificate from the local authorities for lawful development. The architect or builder to be employed is the best person to judge the type of permission required and act accordingly.
- Building regulation compliance: As a rule any extension made to a current building has to get this compliance from the department of building control. There are certain fees involved in obtaining the same. In fact there are also private certified firms who deal in building control and who are competent to issue the same.
- Party wall agreement: This is an agreement one needs to have with their neighbours wherein a surveyor is appointed to arrange for the same. If the neighbours share a good rapport and agree to a waiver, they still have to sign a waiver form.
- Size of the extension: While certain planning constraints might be there depending on the extensions already made, there are two things that need to be kept in mind:
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+ A large extension of definitely cost effective but, extensions which reduce the garden size have a negative impact on prospective buyers.
The design of the single-storey extension is the most important part once the above practical considerations have been dealt with. It is always better to meet with the architect and talk out the designing plans and utility of the extension, so that he is able to translate your vision into a practical version which can be built.
Steph Fanizza, Architectural Design & Team Manager
