EXTENSION AUDIT

GARAGE CONVERSION AUDIT

STRUCTURAL LOFT CONVERSION AUDIT

PRE-PURCHASE FEASABILITY CONSULTATION

TEMPORARY WORKS

STEEL WORK CONNECTIONS

SITE VISIT  

INTERIOR MINOR ALTERATIONS

CDM & ASSOCIATED REPORTS

HEALTH & SAFETY REPORTS 

3D MODELLING (from)

PROJECT MANAGEMENT  

SOIL INVESTIGATION REPORTS

AIR PRESSURE TESTING

SOUND TESTING

BUILDING CONTROL APPLICATIONS

AIR TIGHTNESS TESTING

SOUND INSULATION TESTING

PART F VENTILATION TESTING

RENEWABLE ENERGY ADVICE & INSTALL

ENERGY STATEMENTS

THERMOGRAPHIC SURVEYS & TESTING

CODE FOR SUSTAINABLE HOMES

PART G WATER CALCS

DOMESTIC EPC’S FOR LANDLORDS & HOMEOWNERS

Avoid These Mistakes When Extending Your House - Expert Advice by STAAC

November 14, 2023

Thinking about adding extra space to your home? Whether it's a stunning new kitchen, a spa-like bathroom, a cozy lounge room,or a fun playroom, STAAC is here to be your trusted guide, sharing expert tips on what you absolutely must avoid when embarking on your house extension journey.

Taking the time to plan correctly will undoubtedly pay off, giving your project the best shot at success. Our experienced planning and engineering team is ready to provide you with all the information you need and the best design options for your home improvement dreams.

Don't Be Narrow-Minded - See the Bigger Picture

One of the most common blunders folks make when planning a house extension is having tunnel vision. Instead of simply thinking about the new space, envision how it will seamlessly blend with your existing home. Consider how the extension will impact the natural light, the overall flow of your house, and its aesthetic appeal. Neglecting the broader perspective can result in an awkward addition that sticks out like a sore thumb. STAAC Design and Build approach will help you create a vision that integrates beautifully with your home, making it a seamless part of your living space.

Slow Down and Get Your Planning Right

Another big no-no is rushing through the planning application process. Getting the necessary permits and approvals can be a bit of a bureaucratic journey, but it's essential for ensuring your house extension complies with the latest UK legal standards. Skipping corners in this phase can lead to costly delays and legal headaches down the line. At STAAC, we'll be your guiding light, helping you navigate the intricacies of local regulations, ensuring everything is in order, and submitted correctly and on time.

Be a Good Neighbor

An often forgotten but crucial step is keeping your neighbors in the loop. It's not just a courtesy; it's often a legal requirement. Ignoring your neighbors' concerns can lead to disputes and complications during construction.

If you and your neighbor have a party wall or boundary that sits between both properties, it's crucial to understand the importance of a party wall agreement.

This agreement is necessary when you plan to do any construction work that affects this shared space. To make it simple: before starting any work on a party wall, you must notify your neighbor at least two months in advance. This agreement helps ensure everything goes smoothly and avoids potential problems down the road.

Our team can help you draft neighbor notifications and encourage open communication and ensure a smoother process of your project.

The Right Team for the Job

Choosing the right design and building contractors is paramount. Hiring in experienced or unreliable professionals can lead to shoddy work, budget overruns, and project delays. STAAC works with a network of trusted architects, designers, and builders who are known for delivering top-notch results. We'll help you assemble a skilled team that can efficiently bring your vision to life within your budget.

If you are struggling with understanding how and when to hire a general contractor, download our free guide.

Construction progress of a rear extension in Wallington, Surrey

And, If you require building services that include architectural planning and design, we recommend checking out our services available in Brighton and surrounding areas.

Don't Forget About Sustainability and Efficiency

In today's eco-conscious world, ignoring sustainability and energy efficiency can be a costly misstep. Neglecting green design principles and energy-saving technologies can result in higher bills anda bigger carbon footprint. STAAC's experts are well-versed in sustainable building practices and can help you make eco-friendly choices that benefit both your wallet and the environment.

The Right Materials Matter

The materials you choose for your house extension area critical consideration. Opting for subpar materials to save a few bucks may seem tempting, but it can lead to future maintenance headaches and reduced property value. STAAC will guide you in selecting the right materials that match your design vision and stand the test of time, ensuring your investment is a wise one.

Conclusion

In closing, embarking on a house extension project can be an exciting journey. By avoiding these common mistakes and partnering with STAAC, you can ensure a smooth path toward designing and building your dream home extension.

Our team is committed to making your project are sounding success, ensuring that you won't have to deal with costly errors along the way.

Reach out to STAAC today and let us help you transform your house into the home you've always dreamed of!

BACK TO BLOGS