6 things to consider before starting your home extension.

Things to consider before starting your home project.

6 things to consider before starting your home extension.

Renovating your home can be an exciting but challenging process. There are numerous factors to consider before embarking on a home extension project, which can impact the outcome of the extension. Here are six things to consider before starting your home renovation project:

Budget:

A budget is one of the most crucial aspects of any renovation project. Before starting your home extension, you need to set a realistic budget and stick to it. Renovations and extensions can be costly, so it’s crucial to consider all the costs. Including consultants’ fees, planning and building control fees, building costs and VAT. Your Architect will be able to guide you on this. Take a look at our building cost calculator to estimate the cost of your building project. For further information on buildings costs in 2025 take a look at our latest blog.

Scope of work:

The scope of work is the extent of the renovation project. Before starting the project, you need to have a clear idea of the scope of work you want to undertake. Having a detailed brief that outlines every aspect of the project, including the materials and finishes you want to use, can help keep your project on track. Here at Sheldon Peever Studio we can work with you to draw up this brief as part of an initial consultation.

It’s important to take into account any possible structural modifications that might be necessary. It’s advisable to seek the advice of an architect to verify that your renovation ideas are practical and meet the building regulations.

Building control:

Depending on the scope of your extension project, you may need to obtain building control approval. It’s essential to ensure that your project meets all the building regulations to avoid any additional costly work later on. If you’re working with an architect they can help you obtain the necessary permissions and ensure that your building work complies.

Programme:

A home extension project can be disruptive to your daily life, so it’s essential to have a clear idea of how long the project will take. Before starting a project your Architect should create a programme that includes milestones and deadlines for each stage of the project.
It’s also crucial to be mindful of potential delays that may arise. Planning delays, weather, supply chain disruptions, and unforeseen issues on site can all impact the timeline of your project. Planning for these potential delays can help keep your renovation on track and reduce stress throughout the process.

Hiring a professional:

Building projects can be complex, and it’s essential to hire the right professional to help you through the process. Architects can provide valuable guidance and expertise, ensuring that your renovation is completed on time and within budget.

When hiring a professional, it’s essential to do your research. Look for a reputable architect or contractor with experience with domestic buildings. Check their references and online reviews to ensure that they have a good reputation in the industry.

Sustainability:

Sustainable design and construction practices have become increasingly popular in recent years. As we become more aware of our impact on the environment, so it’s essential to consider sustainability as part of your project.

There are numerous ways to incorporate sustainability into your home renovation project. Consider using eco-friendly materials, such as timber or wood fibre insulation like Gutex, to reduce your carbon footprint. You can also incorporate energy-efficient design elements, such as solar panels or super insulating the building to reduce your energy consumption. Heat pumps are now an must have requirement for new build houses and when paired with underfloor heating are a cost effective way to heat your house. There are government grants available for installing heat pumps.

In conclusion, before starting your home extension project, there are several things to consider. These include setting a realistic budget, deciding on the scope of work, obtaining necessary planning permissions, creating a realistic timeline, hiring a professional, and incorporating sustainable design practices.

At Sheldon Peever Studio, we provide comprehensive architectural services to help you bring your dream home to life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.