Tips for Building a Rear Home Extension in Brighton

Are you considering a home renovation project in Brighton?

One of the most popular home renovation projects in this area is a rear home extension. This type of extension can add valuable living space to your home and increase its value. However, before you start building, there are a few things you need to consider. Our guide will help you navigate the process of building a rear home extension in Brighton.

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Planning Permission

Before you start any construction, it is important to check if you need planning permission for your rear home extension. In most cases, you will need to obtain planning permission from the local council. This process can take up to eight weeks, so it is important to factor this into your timeline. STAAC has been helping homeowners for years with their extension projects, and we know the ins and outs of Brighton and Hove's planning design rules. With our planning expertise, the application process can be much easier to get through, so that you can still be focused on your primary vision in building your rear extension.

Conservation areas in Brighton and Hove

Living in a conservation area means your neighborhood is protected because of its special history and architecture. In Brigthon, that areas are:

1. Brunswick Town Conservation Area
2. Clifton Hill Conservation Area
3. Preston Village Conservation Area
4. Regency Square Conservation Area
5. Round Hill Conservation Area
6. Seven Dials Conservation Area
7. West Hill Conservation Area
8. Withdean Conservation Area

If you want to make changes to your house, like adding a rear extension, there are some important things to know:

1. Keep the look: Any changes you make should fit in with the traditional style of the area. That means using similar materials and designs.
2. Follow the rules: You might need permission from the local council before making changes. Even small alterations could need approval.
3. Be respectful: It's about preserving the character of the area. So, consider how your changes might affect the look of your street and your neighbors' homes.

You can check Brighton and Hove guidance to check the rules you need to follow if you are living in conservation area.

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Can I build a rear extension in Brighton without planning permission?

Yes, you might have that question and already consider it. The interpretation of permitted development rights can be complex, especially given their changes over time. In simple terms, permitted development rights typically don't cover residential buildings that aren't single dwelling houses, flats, listed buildings, or places where planning rules have specifically taken away those rights.

When you planning to extend the rear of your house, it's important to keep in mind that the permitted length of the extension may vary. For terraced or semi-detached properties, a single storey rear extension is limited to a maximum of 3m, while a detached property may extend up to 4m. Additionally, if you're planning a double storey extension, the maximum length allowed is 3m. Our advice, it is better to consult with your contractor and architect on any of these rules before your house extension project commence.

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Design and Layout

The design and layout of your rear home extension will depend on your specific needs and the layout of your existing home. You can choose to extend your kitchen, living room, or add an extra bedroom. It is important to consider the flow of your home and how the extension will fit in with the existing structure. You can work with an architect or designer to come up with a design that meets your needs and complements your home.

Timeline

Building a rear home extension in Brighton can be a lengthy process, so it is important to have a realistic timeline in mind. Factors such as obtaining planning permission, designing the extension, and sourcing materials can all impact the timeline. It is important to communicate with your trusted contractor and have a clear understanding of the timeline for your project.

STAAC Design and Build Method

At STAAC, we believe in making your home renovation journey smooth and enjoyable. It all begins with a simple discovery call, where we chat about your dreams and needs, and figure out what's possible within your budget. Then comes the exciting part—a site visit! Picture sipping tea from a lovely cup while we meet our expert and start bouncing around some realistic ideas.

Once we're all on the same page, we dive into the design process. Your dreams begin to take shape on paper here, after which we handle the details such as planning, submissions, and approvals, which are things you have already encountered before. We make sure everything meets the necessary regulations and guidelines, so you can rest easy knowing your project is in good hands.

Once planning is approved, we move on to the next steps, including structural calculations and building regulations. Don't worry, we'll take care of all the technical details and paperwork, so you can focus on getting excited about your project.

When everything's set, we'll arrange a meeting with your builder to kick off the build phase. And don't forget about building control approval—we've got reliable partners who can handle that for you, ensuring everything is up to standard every step of the way.

Also, our collaborative approach fosters clear communication, preventing costly misunderstandings. This means you not only achieve your dream home but also at a more budget-friendly price.

Conclusion

Building a rear home extension in Brighton can be a great way to add value and space to your home.

However, it is important to carefully consider all aspects of the project before starting construction. By following these tips, you can ensure a successful and stress-free home renovation project. With numerous extensions completed in Brighton, chances are we've already done work in your neighborhood.

Don't hesitate to contact us to find out more and discuss your project!

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