MANAGING A HOME EXTENSION PROJECT

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A home extension project is typically a result of requiring additional living space for a growing family or its needs. It can be taken up outwards or an increase in floor area within the property, upwards by adding another floor, or downwards to take advantage of existing basement areas. In every case, permissions are needed, and these may impose certain restrictions on the home extensions. Decide on the additional space that you need for the home, after taking all family members into confidence.

Systematic Management Can Lead to Successful Home Extension Projects

Extending the footprint of the existing home is only possible if you have the space available within the property, and are yet able to adhere to the building restrictions of required open spaces, distance from property boundaries and adjacent properties so that your extension and your neighbours will have the stipulated light and ventilation.

Going upwards is a solution which will require you to look at existing foundations and their ability to take increased loads. If this problem exists, you can always opt for new foundations for the additional rooms, though this can be expensive. Loft extensions can also be considered a part of such an increase in living space, but existing roof heights and approaches to the loft created may dictate the practicality of this solution.

Basements are mostly used as storage spaces but can be easily converted into additional living spaces. Again here, an approach, a proper exit plan, and attention to dampness inhibiting solutions can dictate the possibilities of the extension. Adding plumbing facilities can often be a problem in terms of accessibility and cost. Electrical wiring is another consideration and you’re going to have to call in a local electrician to get this done.

MANAGING A HOME EXTENSION PROJECT

The first step to being taken in managing home extension projects is to determine that any of the extensions that you have in mind can conform to existing rules and regulations in your area, and will receive the proper building permits when they are applied for. This becomes easier if your home extensions are planned by architects practising in your area, who will be aware of all the rules governing such extensions. Once you have a proper plan, and before applying for permits, it can be better if you make a complete budget for whatever plans you have in mind. Then look at the finance needed and whether you can easily arrange the same from your own savings, additional mortgages or other means. Once this seems practicable, you can apply for permission.

With your plans and permits in place, you can now look for a reliable local contractor with many years’ experience. Get at least three quotations and negotiate the best price with the contractor you think can do a good job for you. Do take the trouble to have a look at any of the contractor’s previously completed jobs to judge the quality of work that you can expect. Home extension work can disrupt a home, and more so if you continue to live there. Temporarily shifting to another location can give your appointed contractor more space and can save you a lot of inconveniences. Sign a proper contract with the appointed agency and be very clear on payment terms, time schedule, quality, materials to be used, and any other matter that you think is important. Give the contractor the site and make sure you have all finances well under control.

While the work is in progress, you have every right to inspect it to make sure things are being carried out as per the contract. Do this in an unobtrusive way so that the work is not stopped in any way. If you require any changes, make sure they are not ones that will have the contractor claiming extras, as this can severely disrupt your budget. If you feel they are essential, negotiate the new rates and then arrange for the required extra finance.

Finish your beautiful home extension by calling in a professional Brisbane painter to give the extension that touch of class you’re looking for.

Adding extensions horizontally is generally easier and will allow you to stay in the home while the work is in progress. Adding vertically can have you living with noise, possible dampness through the roof and other problems. Basement extensions are the least disruptive, as the work is carried out on the floor below. Home extensions can be easily managed if you have proper and definite plans, have the permissions in place, make a budget, arrange the necessary finance and get in an experienced contractor to carry out the work.

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