1st steps in planning an extension

Firstly you will need to see if you can afford it,Most builders like myself can't give you an accurate quote without knowing the full building specification. Then once you know how much you can spend get an architect to get some drawings up.I use my own including building control to speed up the process and then once your happy submit the plans for approval if needed and get building regs sorted. Try and find a builder that will do it all like we do and it will take the pressure of you.

Hi there. I would advise getting some preliminary designs from an architect or designer in the first instance and then try and get a budget cost estimate for the works from a local contractor. If the price is in your cost bracket then you can proceed with the statutory services such as planning and building regs. Following the detailed drawings you will then be able to get a quotation from a contractor and fix the works under a building contract. If you are looking to refinance your property, it is likely that your mortgage company will want the works carried out under contract. Hope this helps, Andy

This depends weather your extension is a simple design and within or outside of permitted development. A search online can give you the information on developments within your borough. For single story extensions <4m out from your property to the rear or side are unlikely to need planning permission; in this instance I would contact a local builder with extension experience for a rough estimate before attempting to raise funds or contacting a architect. The builder can then confirm your findings and give his expert opinion on how to proceed. To find the price of an average extension find out the m2 and search online for the average price per m2 and you will get an idea on cost which also puts you in a good position when deciding between tenders. For a larger extension a builder can point you in the rite direction if you have one in mind over the phone. Paying a architect can cost up to 3k which is often avoidable for simpler jobs providing your dealing with the rite builder. give yourself at least 15% contingency on the builders price for professional fees ( building regs, architect, structural engineers, planning) if as usually the case there is drainage in the way of the build another consideration is to contact the water board local to yourself for a drainage map for your builder to contact them as soon as possible. hope this helps good luck with your project regards Philip Activate Construction Ltd