If you need a bigger home, but don't want all the hassle and expense of moving, a double storey extension built on to your house could be the perfect solution. Creating more space on two floors could give you the dream kitchen you've always wanted plus a large master bedroom with en suite bathroom. Or perhaps you'd like a spacious open plan living area, a quiet study, or a playroom for the children. How you use the new extension will be entirely up to you.
Building a two-storey extension is a big project and the quality of the finished structure will depend on careful planning and attention to detail both before and during construction. Here are some of the questions you'll need to consider:
How can I find the best builder for the job?
You can't afford to take the chance of hiring a cowboy builder to construct a double storey extension (even if his quotation is temptingly low!). Look for an established builder that only employs properly qualified staff and is a member of a respected trade organisation such as theFederation of Master Builders, or the government supported quality scheme Trustmark. Ask to see examples of extensions they have built and testimonials from satisfied customers.
A double storey extension will also need the services of a qualified electrician, plumber, carpenter, plasterer and perhaps other skilled tradesmen. Choosing one building company that can supply a team of professionals who are used to working together will avoid the delays and misunderstandings that can occur when you use people from several different companies.
Will I need planning permission?
Almost certainly, yes! Although house extensions are included in ‘permitted developments' that don't need permission, the rules governing such developments mostly apply to small, single storey extensions. Even if you think your double storey extension conforms to the rules it's always wise to check with your local planning authority.
If you use a building company that offers a complete design and build service they will be able to advise you on the current rules and can deal with the planning applications on your behalf.
What about building regulations?
All new building must conform to government regulations covering all aspects of building health and safety. A professional builder will be familiar with these and will liaise with the local authority building inspector to make sure the correct safety certificates are obtained.
What preliminary work will need to be done?
A well built double storey extension is heavy! Your builder will need to inspect the house foundations and construct new ones to support the structure. He will also need to locate gas pipes, electricity cables, water pipes and drains that might be running under the area. If your extension is going to house a new kitchen or bathroom, new drains might need to be laid or existing ones re-routed.
Can I stay in my home while the extension is constructed?
All building work creates noise and dust and a double storey extension means builders will need access to the ground and first floor rooms that adjoin the extension. Power and water supplies will also have to be turned off at times. A good builder will explain what's being done at each stage and warn you when to expect the most disruption, but the work will still impact on your normal home life. Some people are happy to ‘camp out' in the rooms that are not affected by the work, others prefer to move out temporarily, or take a holiday!
A two-storey extension can turn an ordinary house into a home that's exactly right for you and your family, but it needs to be designed and built with expertise and care. Begin by exploring all your options with an experienced, professional builder who offers free, no obligation consultations and quotations.
Building a two-storey extension is a big project and the quality of the finished structure will depend on careful planning and attention to detail both before and during construction. Here are some of the questions you'll need to consider:
How can I find the best builder for the job?
You can't afford to take the chance of hiring a cowboy builder to construct a double storey extension (even if his quotation is temptingly low!). Look for an established builder that only employs properly qualified staff and is a member of a respected trade organisation such as theFederation of Master Builders, or the government supported quality scheme Trustmark. Ask to see examples of extensions they have built and testimonials from satisfied customers.
A double storey extension will also need the services of a qualified electrician, plumber, carpenter, plasterer and perhaps other skilled tradesmen. Choosing one building company that can supply a team of professionals who are used to working together will avoid the delays and misunderstandings that can occur when you use people from several different companies.
Will I need planning permission?
Almost certainly, yes! Although house extensions are included in ‘permitted developments' that don't need permission, the rules governing such developments mostly apply to small, single storey extensions. Even if you think your double storey extension conforms to the rules it's always wise to check with your local planning authority.
If you use a building company that offers a complete design and build service they will be able to advise you on the current rules and can deal with the planning applications on your behalf.
What about building regulations?
All new building must conform to government regulations covering all aspects of building health and safety. A professional builder will be familiar with these and will liaise with the local authority building inspector to make sure the correct safety certificates are obtained.
What preliminary work will need to be done?
A well built double storey extension is heavy! Your builder will need to inspect the house foundations and construct new ones to support the structure. He will also need to locate gas pipes, electricity cables, water pipes and drains that might be running under the area. If your extension is going to house a new kitchen or bathroom, new drains might need to be laid or existing ones re-routed.
Can I stay in my home while the extension is constructed?
All building work creates noise and dust and a double storey extension means builders will need access to the ground and first floor rooms that adjoin the extension. Power and water supplies will also have to be turned off at times. A good builder will explain what's being done at each stage and warn you when to expect the most disruption, but the work will still impact on your normal home life. Some people are happy to ‘camp out' in the rooms that are not affected by the work, others prefer to move out temporarily, or take a holiday!
A two-storey extension can turn an ordinary house into a home that's exactly right for you and your family, but it needs to be designed and built with expertise and care. Begin by exploring all your options with an experienced, professional builder who offers free, no obligation consultations and quotations.