House Extension Plans - Why Would You Need An Extension?

House extension plans are something that many people think of at some point. Whether it is to extend the downstairs area of a house by converting or adding a garage, or the upstairs area by changing what the loft is used for; the reasons behind the desire for an extension are many. For some, it is about creating more space for a growing family. More children mean, eventually, more bedrooms when they are old enough to need one of their own. Or perhaps an elderly relative is coming to live in the house. Alternatively, an extension can add much value to a home if you intend to sell it.

Loft Conversion Plans – Why Should You Hire An Architect For Your Loft Conversion?

If you choose to extend your home by converting your loft, there are several aspects to take into account. One of these is whether or not to hire an architect. Loft conversions may seem like a fairly simple idea, and not one that requires the services of a professional, but there is more to take into account that you might think. The first is the planning for loft conversion. You will need to approach your local council to obtain planning permission for your new loft area, and this can be a long process. By hiring an architect the time can be cut down considerably. This is because one of the main problems with applying for permission and planning to have a loft extension is the plans – if they are not accurate or they are deemed unsafe in any way then planning permission will not be granted. If that happens, then you will either have to draw up new plans or give up on the idea entirely. However, if you hire an architect to draw your loft conversion plans, then they are more likely to be correct from the very beginning, saving you time and money in the long term.

Extension Plans – How Much Do They Cost?

When it comes to the price for extension plans, the cost can vary depending on what it is you want done. A professional should always carry out extension design plans in order to have a better chance of being accepted for planning permission. Not only that, but the builders who follow the plans need to be able to understand them completely. If they are ambiguous in any way, then the final build may be incorrect, and when an inspection takes place you could be fined or even told to remove the building altogether. Therefore, hiring a professional, qualified architect is essential for your peace of mind and your budget. But, how much should an architect cost? There are no official guidelines regarding fees for architect extension plans, and the final cost will depend on the size and scale of the project. A loft conversion may seem simple at first, but if there are unexpected issues when it comes to the original build of the house (hidden supports, for example), then it could become more complicated. House extension plans will cost more if there is a lot of additional work to do on the existing building. This is why loft conversion plans can often cost more than garage extension plans, for example.

Garage Conversion Plans – Is Planning Required?

A garage conversion can be one of the most effective ways of creating more space within your home. They are incredibly versatile spaces, and most of the time they are going to waste, simply used for storage. If the items stored in your garage could be stored elsewhere, (in your loft, for example), think of the possibilities. Perhaps you need a home office or workroom? Your garage conversion plans could include provision for exactly that. Or, if your garage is attached to your house, it could make the perfect playroom or extra bedroom. It could even be used as a space for your older children or older relatives to live – especially if your garage conversion floor plans include a second storey. Any structural work such as the second storey previously mentioned will require planning permission, and it should be sought at the very beginning of the process. However, internal changes may be exempt. This is why having an architect on hand is essential – not only will they create the plans for the changes to your garage, but they will be able to advise you on planning law as well.

Extension Plans – Can A Terraced House Be Extended?

Extending a detached or even a semi-detached house is easy to imagine, but what about a terraced house? Is there any way to draw up extension plans for one? Over one-quarter of all houses in the UK are terraced, and although it may seem as though they can never have any changes made, they can. This is great news because the usual layout of a terraced house is often unsuited to modern living. More space is always a good thing, especially with so many people opting to work from home these days. Speak to your architect about terraced house extension plans in order to work out exactly what it is you need them to do for you. One popular idea for extending a terraced house is to convert the loft into an additional bedroom, playroom, or office space. However, if there is space at the back of the house and you don’t mind losing some of your garden, then an extension can be put there – subject to planning permission. This could be a one or two storey extension, and could impact hugely on the space within the house itself. Different extension plans cost varying amounts, so it is a good idea to get more than one quote. KJM Design and Planning Services is extremely competitive.