Adding an extra room to your property is one of the best investments you can make because it almost always results in a value increase of your home. This is particularly true if you can improve the size of the kitchen, or, rather, add an extra bedroom. Regardless of what your extension plans are, however, there are a few things that you need to know before you get started. From planning permissions to design considerations, here is everything that you need to know about house extensions.

What Planning Permissions Do You Need?

Depending on where you live and your property type, you may or may not need planning permission. Old houses that are protected will always need permission of some kind before work can be done. Similarly, some neighbourhoods might require you to get the permission of others before you make a change, as it could impact the overall value of the community itself. Always know what the rules are before you start to build, so finding out whether planning permission for extension is needed is vital. It’s not the worst scenario if you do need it, but there are instances where you won’t.

Extra Floor Space Isn’t Enough – You Need Design Plans

Planning an extension just to improve the overall floor space in your home is not enough. If you add on extra space without also thinking about the design of your home, you are just adding another nook. That is why before you commit to any project you need first to go through and redesign your home to incorporate the extra space. This way, you will maximise the use and improve the overall look and design of your home.

How Difficult Will It Be to Heat the Extension?

A lot of people want to add a glass extension to their home, but you need to be very careful. You need to heat the extension and cool it in the summer, and some materials are better at aiding that than others. If your boiler similarly is on its last legs and can barely heat your home as is, then the extra space it needs to heat in your extension could be a problem. Always consider the logistics of your house extension before you commit.

Remember to Make the Extension Cohesive Externally

Another mistake is creating the extension without considering the external design of your property. While it may look great on the inside, how it looks externally could end up costing you in the future. If you have a period home, for example, and add a modern extension, it could reduce the overall value of your property than if you made the extension in the same aesthetic as the rest of your home. Never underestimate the power of kerb appeal, especially if you plan on selling your home in the future.

Adding extra space in your property is a great way to love your property and get more out of it. Just adding extra footage, however, is not enough. You need to design the extension correctly so that it maximises your current living space. You also need to ensure you are adhering to the law. The last thing you want is to be fined for renovating the exterior of a protected home.