Extensions (part 2)

Last month we posted a blog about things you need to consider when you’re about to start an extension on your property. We covered three tips around the right to light, toilets and lobby’s and ceiling heights.

This week we thought we’d look at three more areas you need to consider during the process.

#1 – Have you got enough toilets?

If you’re planning on adding an extra bedroom to your property, think about whether you need an extra bathroom, or at the very least, toilet facilities. It’s worth noting that there are no legal requirements when it comes to bathroom and bedroom ratios; however, the last thing you want is to find you have space for 10 individuals to reside in a property, and only one room for toilet and bathing facilities.

This definitely won’t make for harmonious living conditions!

Even if you’re happy to make a compromise on facilities, remember that one day you (or your family) are likely to want to sell the property, and as a result, you will need to consider what future buyers will expect. It is not unreasonable to expect at least one bedroom and an ensuite or shower room for a four bedroom property. Anything over this, and you would ideally have another toilet area, at least.

#2 – Can you remove walls?

Whether you’re planning an extension, or just hoping to remodel your property, it is always worth considering if you need some of your internal walls (those that are not essential for structural purposes, anyway).

It may be the case that by removing a wall you are creating a larger space, and letting more light in, making the property appear bigger than it actually is. In many situations it is perfectly easy to create room definitions by using dividers, furniture or even a change in décor. It can be a great way to give you more space to play with.

#3 – Estimates and quotes

When you are in the process of sourcing contractors to complete work for you, no matter what that is, make sure you’re very clear about the difference between a quote and an estimate.

An estimate is someone’s best guess as to how much a particular job or element of building is going to cost. This might, or might not, include the materials that are going to be required for the job, as well as labour.

Before you go ahead and start work, make sure that you have a written quotation for the job in hand. This quotation will be the actual price agreed with the contractor, and should not differ at the end of the process. Also take the time to find out what happens if things go wrong (that are not the contractor’s fault), especially if this has an impact on the amount of time taken to complete a job, and if this is going to cost you more.

A good contractor will have their own terms and conditions which you will be able to review before agreeing to have the work done.