How To Start Planning Your Home Extension

House extensions are a popular way to update or improve your property without the disruption of moving house. As increasing numbers of us work from home, creating a home office, with separate relaxation and leisure areas, has become a priority for many. Ideal Home magazine recently shared some tips on planning an extension to your house.

1. Decide what type of extension you want

Establish what the main purpose of your new space will be. Do you want a quiet office to work in, or extra bedrooms and living areas for a growing family? What is the maximum available plot you have to the rear, side, or front of your property? Draw up a budget and timescale to make sure your expectations are achievable.

2. Check out planning permission rules

The planning permission rules, published here by the Scottish government, are quite detailed, so it is worth reading them carefully or seeking professional advice.

You can build up to a certain size and type of extension without obtaining planning permission. For example, a single-storey rear extension that doesn’t exceed 4m from the original back wall, or 4m in height (or 3m for terraced houses) and doesn’t cover more ground than the house. Differences apply if it’s in a conservation area.

3. Decide who will design and build the extension

If you have the time, strength and skill, you can do the work yourself. This may save you money, but it is a major undertaking, and you will need to research and source all the materials yourself as well.

Builders will require detailed technical architects plans, including mathematical calculations demonstrating structural integrity, and evidence of fire safety, damp proofing, and ventilation methods. If price is an issue, you could compromise and do the unskilled labour such as ground clearance yourself, leaving the rest to the professionals.

If you are looking for Glasgow architects house extensions, please get in touch today.