A single-storey extension can increase important habitable space and uniquely redesign your home. It gives you more reasons to improve your house instead of moving to a new home. Below are the things you need to know about single-storey extensions.
The Design
This aspect allows you to become creative. You should use a sheet of paper and begin to sketch how you want your extension to look like. Write a list of all required extras and other extras you want to include to spice up your extension. Determine certain key factors like the size of additional space you want, lighting, extra kitchen and the place you want to extend. Usually, single-storey extensions are added to the rear or side of the house.
Discuss with an Architect
Once you know what you want, it becomes easier to discuss your extension with an architect. An architect can transform your ideas and spice up your extension so that you can enjoy them more. Even though you can discuss your extension with a builder, using an architect will give it the touch of an expert.
Certain things to be determined include allowing natural light into the extension. If you want to blend the extension with the existing building or want it to stand out and want a tall ceiling and a flat roof.
Budget
When it comes to building your extension, it is very easy to spend above your intended amount. Firstly, you have to make a list of all the important things you need to buy. Ensure you buy building materials that are of a very high quality that is durable, and can serve you for a long time. You can buy items like furniture and luxury later on after you have built the extension.
A single-storey extension will cost you about £1,200 to £1,600 per m2 of the extension. If your single-storey extension requires expensive and luxury items, it will cost more to build it. Your location also determines the cost of your single-storey extension. Don’t forget to add additional costs for things like lighting, waterproofing, decorating and flooring.
Is Planning Permission and Building Regulations Required?
A large number of single-storey extensions can be built without having planning permission. This can be done under Permitted Development. According to the rules, a single-storey rear extension is eligible under permitted development if it doesn\’t exceed the rear wall by 6m – 8m. Even if a single-storey extension is under Permitted Development, there are still some limitations. For example, the single-storey extension height cannot exceed 4m, and there are other restrictions too. An experienced architect or builder will know about all these restrictions, but you must inquire from your area’s planning authority.
Suppose your single-storey extension is under Permitted Development. In that case, you need to apply for a Lawful Development Certificate from the local planning authority in your area to prove your single-storey extension satisfied the requirements and is legal. However, if your single-storey extension is quite large, you won’t be eligible for a Permitted Development. In this case, you need to apply for planning permission. You should ask the local planning authority in your area to plan permission from or go to the internet to fill it. After your application has been confirmed, you will have to wait for eight weeks to make a decision. If a decision isn’t made within eight weeks, you will be informed through writing. Where your application is denied or delayed, you can appeal it.
Besides applying for planning permission, you need to ensure that your single-storey extension obeys the building regulations. The building regulations include proper ventilation, electricity and water supply, an emergency exit in case of a fire accident and heating. Your single-storey extension must meet all these requirements before you can go on to begin building your extension.
Conclusion
Having an extra space where you can live is very important. However, creating an additional habitable space takes time and requires that you follow some processes. We hope that this guide will prove useful as you make plans to build your single-storey extension.
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