Adding an extension to your home can improve the property’s resale value, while offering you the luxury of additional space.
Home extensions can be costly and time-consuming, so it’s crucial that you plan the process properly before starting to ensure the best results possible for a fair price.
Along with careful preparation and monitoring the execution of the project for home extensions, it’s important to engage an experienced builder who understands what needs to be done.
Here are four things to look out for before starting your home extension.
1. Professional opinions matter
Whether the extension is up or out, you’ll need expert advice from a few professionals before starting your project to avoid unnecessary hassle and delay as the construction progresses.
Depending on the scale of your extension, you’ll need a professional to ensure the design is structurally sound and all building regulations and site conditions are complied with.
Check with renovation specialists, and they will most likely be able to provide a one-stop service on these issues.
2. Getting the approval
Always check with your local council and state government on the regulations that may be relevant to the proposed works. There could be a height restriction due to the location of your home or heritage overlays attached to the title, requiring a formal planning process with the council. You will most likely need a permit when renovating your home.
It can take up to months to obtain the final approval upon which you can proceed to liaise with your building surveyor to getting the building permit. Engaging a reliable building surveyor is essential as it’s their responsibility to ensure that all regulations are complied with in a timely manner.
3. Plan your stay during the build
Even though the works may take place at the far end of the house, the building noise and workers accessing the home may cause inconvenience and discomfort to the occupants.
Understanding the details and timeline of the process is important so ensure that information is communicated to you before work starts so you can plan in advance. Perhaps take it as an opportunity to go for a holiday, rent a temporary place elsewhere or stay with family and friends while the building is in progress.
4. Keep your valuables out of sight
Having strangers in your home can be an unnerving experience. If you feel uncomfortable about the possibility of theft, no matter how minimal it may be, there are simple steps you can take to minimise the risks.
If you don’t plan on leaving the house during the building process, know that your presence will act as a deterrent against theft. If you are leaving the premise during the works, the first step is to remove any items of significant financial or sentimental value, such as jewellery and laptops.
It’s also a good idea to store away anything with identifying information such as bills, mail, or business documents which can be photographed or stolen.
Removing these items and storing them in a safe place will offer you peace of mind while the extension is underway.
Article provided by Supa Group
