A home extension will cost you thousands of pounds, so you must make the required preparations, comprehend the contract before signing it, understand how to manage the design while it is being built, and be aware of your options in the event of disputes.
Regardless of whether you opt for a single or two-story extension or any other type of extension, there are some essential aspects to get right.
Before starting an extension
Any extensions require manpower, materials, equipment, and tools, as well as budget. However, what is most important is the consent of your neighbor when creating a party wall.
Party walls also referred to as fence walls or garden walls built along a boundary, are typically used to divide buildings owned by various parties.
Often, only the portion of a wall that is shared by two properties when it divides structures of various sizes is a party wall, the remaining portion belongs to the person or people whose land it is located on.
According to the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is a process to follow when building work includes excavations close to neighboring buildings, new walls at boundaries, or party walls or party fence walls.
Property owners need to notify their neighbors in advance of certain planned works and in case there is any dispute, the neighbor has full rights to reject in response. Party wall surveyors are appointed to come down to mutual consent with the neighbor.
Complete detail is sent to neighbors regarding, work time, number of laborers appointed, the period in which it will be completed, and the complete layout of the extension.
Decide What You Want
This will include everything from what size it will be to what paint color you want. Even though you don’t have to decide everything before the work begins, you can make more decisions and make changes to the design once it is launched.
This way, the design, and construction will go more smoothly.
Budget
Setting a budget helps you in deciding what items to avoid and what is important. You must make sure you carefully study these quotations because builders provide detailed descriptions of what they will provide and for what considerations.
It’s crucial to make room in your budget for any unnecessary details that demand attention, but of which you and your contractor are likely unaware.
It’s important to make sure you have money put aside to cover variations or modifications that frequently occur during a building design.
Time Extension
Most construction contracts have a defined deadline for completion, and you should make sure it is specified in your contract. Construction initiatives frequently experience delays, which can occur for a wide range of causes.
The delay can be due to the builder, material supplier, weather conditions, etc. The builder’s delays should not be given a grace period because doing so would prevent your ability to sue for delay-related damages.
When you plan for an extension, you should always be prepared for mistakes, and delays that happen from the builder’s side.
Always know your state’s regulations, so that you’re prepared for any consequences. Keep your builder in the loop so that they keep you updated.