General Advice on Extensions

The Government's easing of planning restrictions could cause more red tape than less to some homeowners - always check building regulations can save a lot pain in the long run and protect you from those awkward neighbours!!

Substantial extension can add more to a value than any other home improvement. If the project is carried out professionally you can double your money in particular ground floor extensions.

Ground floor extensions are easier to get planning permission for they fall into the category ‘permitted development rights’. Ground floor extensions are far less disruptive than basement or loft extensions.

Victorian conversions are ideal to extend as they are built as L-shaped houses, so the kitchen leading out to the garden gives you wonderful use of dead space (as shown in this photograph)

Planning correctly enables you to have a beautiful well thought out design, built correctly, giving more space and adding value to your property.

Simple things to remember

• Heating the new space
• Floor levels and surfaces
• Cost of an extension should relate to the value of your property

Ground floor extensions that consist of generous amounts of glass, open plan kitchen/dining room that naturally connects with the garden bringing the inside out and large amounts of glass gives more light and the doors folding back removes the boundary lines.

Floorings for extensions should be hard wearing, easy to clean, adding under floor heating is cost effective (ideally stone or floor tiles) and you should also make sure the flooring chosen works with the rest of the house.

For any further questions or queries, please contact Justine Greeson on 0845 1220663.