Planning a home extension is an exciting endeavour that allows you to customise your living space so that it can better suit your needs. It’s well worth noting, though, that a home extension is often a demanding project. As such, there are several critical considerations that you must remember to make sure that this process is as smooth as possible and that its final result meets your expectations.
For the best results, take some time to mull over the following ideas when planning and carrying out home extension projects in Dunedin:
Purpose and Design
Before you get in touch with builders Dunedin homeowners trust, make sure to clearly define the purpose of your home extension project. Ask yourself what you need the extra space for—is it going to be an additional bedroom for a growing family, a larger kitchen to enhance your cooking experience, or perhaps a home office to facilitate remote working? Knowing the purpose of the additional space will guide the design process and ensure the new space serves its intended function.
The design of your extension should blend seamlessly with the existing structure of your home, too. So, pinpoint the architectural style of your house and aim for a design that complements it. More than enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home, making an effort to match the additional structure to the existing building can make your home feel more cohesive.
Budget
Just like any home improvement project, you need to set a realistic budget for your home extension. Start by getting detailed quotes from trusted local builders and contractors like SB2 Build to have a good idea about what your money can get you. Your budget should also cover all aspects of the project, including materials, labour, permits, and any unexpected costs that might arise. It’s wise to allocate a contingency fund to cover unexpected expenses. This amount is typically around 10-15% of the total budget.
Additionally, when planning your budget, consider the quality of materials and finishes you want to use. While it might be tempting to cut costs, investing in quality materials can save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance and repair costs. If necessary, your chosen builder can help you find practical options that meet your budget and objectives for the construction project.
Planning Permissions and Regulations
Before starting any work, check with your local council about planning permissions and building regulations. Some home extensions may seem “minor” but require planning permission, especially if they alter the appearance of your home or affect your neighbours. Failing to obtain the necessary permissions can lead to costly legal issues and may even require you to undo the work.
Impact on Existing Structures
The extension you’re planning will inevitably impact the current layout and structure of your home. Knowing this, think about how the changes will figure into the space and affect your movement. Will it improve the flow of your living spaces or could it possibly create awkward transitions between old and new areas? Think about natural light and ventilation as well. A well-designed extension should enhance the overall functionality and comfort of your home.
Structural integrity is another critical aspect. While something might look good in your visualisations, it might not be structurally feasible. Consult with a licensed engineer to ensure that the existing building can support the new addition, especially if you’re planning a second-storey extension or significant alterations to load-bearing walls.
Professional Help
Working with qualified professionals is one of the biggest factors in ensuring that your home extension project will be a resounding success. An experienced architect can help you create a design that meets your needs and complies with local regulations, while builders and contractors with a solid track record can ensure an efficient construction process. SB2 Build, for one, is a trusted and experienced home builder based in Otago, and our team can handle every aspect of your building extension project. You can check our references and previous projects to see how our clients regard the quality of our work.
Neighbour Considerations
It’s courteous and often necessary to inform your neighbours about your extension plans, especially if the construction work will have even a slight impact on their property or daily lives. Open communication can help address any concerns they might have and prevent potential disputes. Moreover, maintaining good relationships with your neighbours can make the construction period less stressful for everyone involved.
Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Incorporating sustainable and energy-efficient designs into your home extension can reduce your long-term energy costs of maintaining the space and keeping it comfortable for your family members. At the same time, the use of sustainable design principles can benefit the environment in the long run. Consider installing energy-efficient windows and insulation to minimise heat loss and reduce your heating and cooling costs. Solar panels, rainwater tanks, and other eco-friendly features can also add value to your home and make it more sustainable.
Disruption and Timeline
All construction projects will cause some sort of disruption to your day-to-day life so it’s best to be prepared. Depending on the scale of the project, you might need to make temporary living arrangements or adjust your daily routines.
Also, establish a realistic timeline with your contractors and try to stick to it. Keep in mind that weather conditions and other unforeseen factors can impact the timeline, so be flexible where possible. That being said, make it a point to regularly check the progress of the project and promptly address any issues with your contractors to avoid delays.
Insurance
Finally, review your home insurance policy to ensure it covers the extension work. This can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that any potential damages or issues will be covered. Usually, you would need to update your policy to protect your investment during and after construction.
Going over these considerations will help you adequately prepare for your upcoming home extension project. Should you need a partner who can assist you in realising your goal for your home renovation, our team at SB2 Build can help you every step of the way. Get in touch with us today.