Extensions
Introduction
In today’s property market, the cost of moving to a new home can be considerable. Solicitor’s fees and a survey account for around £2000, and stamp duty, particularly on larger properties, can amount to a hefty sum. Stamp Duty rates from 25th March 2010 and for two years thereafter are as follows:
| Residential Property Purchase Price | Rate of Stamp Duty Land Tax |
| Upto £250,000 | 0% |
| £250,001 - £500,000 | 3% |
| £500,001 - £1,000,000 | 4% |
| £1,000,001 or more | 5% |
It is therefore unsurprising that people are increasingly looking instead to spend money on extending their properties wherever possible, thereby adding space and value to their homes. Indeed, estate agents across the country agree that a loft conversion, extension or conservatory are the top three ways to add value to your home, even more so than a new kitchen or bathroom [Egg.com news release, Oct 2004].
Depending on your property and the plot it is built on, you might be able to extend upwards in to the attic, outwards into the grounds and even downwards into a basement.
- Most extensions will necessitate the addition of one or more radiators to your heating system. Be sure to check that your current boiler has the capacity to deal with this additional demand, or else budget for the cost of a new and larger one.
Unless you are experienced in a wide variety of DIY skills, you are strongly advised to hire a specialist firm to undertake any extension to your home. These companies provide a great deal of experience as well as architectural, structural engineering, planning submission, project management, plumbing, electric and building services.
- If you do proceed with building works without suitable permission and signoff, your local authority can force you to alter the structure or to return it to its original state, at your own cost.
We’ve briefly considered the pros and cons of each type of extension on this page; use the links for further detailed information.
Conservatories
A professionally fitted conservatory can cost anything from £5,000 upwards, depending on specification and size.
- Available to suit a range a budgets and styles
- Often do not require planning permission or building regulation approval
- Can be constructed whilst you remain in the property
- Can suffer from extremes of temperature
- May use up valuable garden space
Loft conversions
A professionally converted loft usually costs around £20,000 to £30,000, but can be much more expensive depending on specification and size.
- Mid-range expense to add considerable space
- Can be constructed whilst you remain in the property
- Does not require ‘spare’ space on the plot
- Loft room has sloping ceilings so not full height use all over
- Additional staircase may render an existing room useless
Basements
A professionally developed basement can cost anything from £50,000 upwards, depending on specification and size.
- Most flexible space that can support heavy loads such as swimming pools and car parking
- Does not require ‘spare’ space on the plot
- Most expensive option
- If digging through solid floors, may require you to move out temporarily
General extensions
The cost of a professionally developed extension will vary considerably depending on the size, nature and specification of the project. There are generally no hard and fast rules except for the standard planning permission criteria and building regulations stipulations. Use the useful links below for further details.
- Certain extensions do not require planning permission
- Architect can create plans to suit your particular needs
- Requires ‘spare’ space on the plot
Further information and useful links
- Generic extension regulations & permission
- Making structural changes to your property
- Successfully damp proofing your home
- Full guide to the building regulations
- Windows & doors topics
- Walls & ceilings topics
- More building works topics
- Find an Architect near you
- Find a Builder near you
- Find a Basement conversion specialist near you
- Find a Loft Conversion specialist near you
- Find a Conservatory supplier near you
- Find a Extension specialist near you
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