FAQS

On average you should have roughly £50-70,000 for a typical single storey rear extension. A good estimate for your extension cost is to multiply the square meter area of the proposed extension by £2,500. Therefore, if you have an extension which is 5x4m – 20 square meters your extension would roughly cost £50,000. You should also factor in any potential VAT which would add a further 20% to the costs. This estimate doesn’t include the internal works if you were fitting a new kitchen, say. Depending on your specification, it could be £3000 per square meter if you are having a high-quality specification and finish.

First, establish your budget as this will give you the parameters for the scope of your extension. Then ask yourself, what is the key priority for your extension? Open plan kitchen/diner? Lighting? Interior Re-design? Utility & Downstairs bathroom? Extra bedroom? Then look at your properties footprint. Is it square, rectangular, L shaped, varied or multiple (side and rear), wraparound? Based the priorities you have established, what is the best extension footprint and location to achieve this? Once you have these answered, look at some previous extension examples. Start a Pinterest board. From there, shortlist your top three and use that for your new extension idea. You can then share this with us and we can design it for you with all of these in mind.

Extension plans can cost between £300 - £5,000 depending on what extension and outcome you need. Specifically, you may only need the plans and drawings for planning permissions rather than detailed drawings for contractors to use. Plans and planning permission stage only will be roughly £1,000. In more detail, typically, architects will charge between 3%-10% of the overall cost of the projects construction. Say your extension costs £50,000 to build, they would charge £2,500 at 5%. This will cover two stages. The planning stage and the technical stage (building regulation drawings). Of course, this price will vary depending on what you want. If your extension is simple, then the figure would be around the 3-5% mark (or lower). However, you usually pay for what you get. The cheaper architects will do very basic plans and won’t show design detail, interiors, exteriors and want nothing to do with the build aspect or communication throughout the project at planning and the building stage. It’s worth asking for examples of the architects work if you have been given a cheap quote and decide for yourself if it is what you want. The cost of extending your home will depend on several factors specific to your project, such as the size of the extension, the materials used, the complexity of the build, and the location. At Home Extension Guru, we provide bespoke extensions that are tailored to your unique needs and budget. We offer a detailed quote and will work with you to establish a budget that works for you from the outset. Our pricing is transparent, and we will never surprise you with hidden costs. Our goal is to deliver a superior extension that exceeds your expectations and fits within your budget. Contact us for a free consultation and cost estimate for your home extension project

We have completed hundreds of extension projects in the midlands and we can boast approved planning permissions from many local councils. These include the following (but not limited too);  - Nottingham City Council  - Mansfield District Council - Rushcliffe Council - Gedling District Council - Derby City Council  - Newark & Sherwood Council - Ashfield District Council  - Leicester City Council  - Lincoln City Council - Cambridge City Council We cover all of the Midlands, UK. We operate from our city center offices in Nottingham East Midlands,  but due to the service we provide we have extension projects as far as London. 

9 months - 1 year. Would be a typical timeframe from concept to competition for your house extension. This is just an average so it could be sooner. Below is an average breakdown from once you engage us on your extension plans; Architectural Planning & Design Drawings (1-2 weeks) Planning Submission & Permission (8-14 weeks) Architectural Building Regulation Drawings (2-4 weeks) Builder Invite to Tender/Cost (2-4 weeks) Construction (3-6 months) One important thing to note is whether your extension is permitted development. If your extension project falls under the Permitted development rules then you can omit the time take for the planning permission and approval as you are permitted to build. Therefore, it will take on average 6 months for a permitted development extension.

In short, Yes. The process can be tricky unless you get an expert involved and advise you on all the key areas such as party walls, drainage, buildability, nieghbours right to light (and more) before the submission to the council. Its best to get all of this right before submissions. However, you are not obliged to employ an architect or planner. You can submit your own plans and elevations to the council for approval as long as you have Existing & Proposed Plans and Elevations to Scale (at 1:50 or 1:100) clearly showing your extension measurements and proposed materials. You will also need to include existing and proposed block plans (1:500 or 1:1250) showing your site and site boundary from a roof top perspective. That being said, this might not be for you. You may prefer to get an expert involved to help and do all of this for you along with use their expertise to design you something you love and save you a lot of time and stop typical mistakes. This is usually why people will employ architects or designers to guide, design and help throughout the whole process. We can submit and deal with the council on your behalf.

Yes, you will most likely need to apply for building regulations for your home extension. Building regulations ensure that your construction project meets safety and health standards. You can apply for building regulations either through a building control officer or an approved inspector. The building control officer will work for your local authority and will carry out site inspections to ensure that your project meets building regulations. On the other hand, an approved inspector is a private building control professional, who is authorized by the government to carry out similar duties. They will work with you throughout the construction project to ensure that all building standards are met, and will provide certification once the work is completed satisfactorily. At Home Extension Guru, we can help you navigate this process and ensure that your home extension meets all necessary requirements. We have a team of experienced architects, builders and designers who will work closely with you to design and execute your project to perfection. We will help you apply for building regulations and work hand-in-hand with the relevant professionals to ensure that you receive all necessary certifications for your home extension. With Home Extension Guru, your building project is in safe and experienced hands.

Most architecture & design firms will have many departments and cover lots of of other clientele - smaller extension projects do not become their priority and you can feel like your being left out compared to some of their larger clients. We understand that building an extension is a major investment and wants to ensure that the extension is not only a functional addition but also aesthetically pleasing. Our team consists of experienced and highly-skilled architects and builders who take the time to listen to our clients' needs and vision for their home. Our process begins with a thorough analysis of the existing property and the proposed extension. We take into consideration the style, design, and materials used in the existing property to ensure that the extension blends seamlessly with the rest of the house. We use computer-aided design software to create detailed plans and 3D models to give clients a clear visual representation of what their extension will look like. We also obtain all necessary planning permissions and conduct site surveys to ensure that the extension meets all relevant building regulations. Our team of builders works closely with our architects to ensure that the construction process is efficient and accurate, and we provide regular updates to our clients during the project. Overall, Home Extension Guru's process ensures that the extension is a seamless addition to the existing property, allowing clients to enjoy a home that not only functions better but also looks better.

Yes. We are fully insured up to 2 million of cover damage along with a combined experience of 10 plus years designing and building home extensions.

It depends on the extent of the works being carried out and the type of property that you have. In most cases, you will not need to move out during the build, but there are certain instances where it may be necessary. If major structural changes are being made or the foundations are being replaced, it may be necessary to move out for safety reasons. If you require significant demolition work to be carried out, this could also mean that you need to vacate the property. Home Extension Guru will work with you to determine a suitable plan for the build process, ensuring that disruption is kept to a minimum and deadlines are met whilst ensuring your safety. We offer a range of extensions with the purpose of achieving our customers' visions in extending their homes without having to demolish it. Our team of experienced designers and engineers will be there every step of the way to ensure that the process runs smoothly, and that you are left with a beautiful and functional extension to your home.

Yes, absolutely! Building an extension with Home Extension Guru can significantly increase the value of your property. By increasing the square footage and available amenities of your home, you are able to attract a wider range of potential buyers should you decide to sell in the future. With our commitment to quality workmanship and attention to detail, you can trust that your extension will add value and functionality to your home, while also enhancing the aesthetic appeal. Our team of expert architects and designers work to create beautiful, functional extensions that seamlessly integrate with your existing home, creating a cohesive and visually-appealing space. Contact us today to start your extension project!

There are several ways to find a builder for your home extension project. Here are some options to consider: 1. Referrals: Ask friends, family, and colleagues for referrals of builders they have worked with and had good experiences with in the past. 2. Online directories: Look up builders in online directories such as Houzz, Yelp, or HomeAdvisor to find options in your area. 3. Local builders' associations: Check with your local builders' association or chamber of commerce to see if they have a list of reputable builders in your area. 4. Check credentials: When you find potential builders, make sure to check their credentials such as licensing, insurance, and certifications. At Home Extension Guru, we provide a list of vetted and qualified builders that we have worked with in the past, ensuring that you receive the highest quality of service and workmanship for your home extension project. Our team of experts is always available to provide you with guidance and support throughout the building process, making your home extension project a stress-free experience.

There are several risks involved when building an extension on your home, including: 1. Building regulations and planning permission: It is important to ensure that your extension complies with local building regulations and planning permissions. If you fail to comply with these regulations, you risk being fined or even having your extension demolished. 2. Structural issues: Poorly constructed extensions can lead to structural issues in your home. It is important to hire a reputable and experienced builder who can ensure that your extension is built to the highest standards. 3. Cost overruns: Building an extension can be expensive, and it is important to have a clear budget in place before starting the project. Unexpected costs can arise during the construction process, so it is important to factor in a contingency budget to cover any unforeseen expenses. 4. Delays: Delays can occur during the construction process due to weather, material shortages or other unforeseen circumstances. It is important to have realistic expectations about the timeline for your extension project and to work with your builder to mitigate any potential delays. At Home Extension Guru, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality, cost-effective and timely extension services. Our team of experienced and licensed builders will ensure that your extension complies with all building regulations and planning permissions and is built to the highest standards of quality. We also work closely with our clients to establish a clear budget and timeline for the project, and we have a proven track record of delivering projects on time and within budget.

An extension can provide more living space, add value to your property, and improve your overall living conditions. However, it's essential to consider how the extension will affect your existing property. Making any structural changes to your home can have an impact on its stability, ventilation, insulation, and lighting. That's why it's critical to enlist the expertise of an experienced architect or builder like Home Extension Guru. We will thoroughly analyze your property and create a design that complements your existing property's style and structure. We will also ensure that all the necessary permits and regulations are in place before the construction begins. When the extension is complete, your property will be transformed into a functional, beautiful, and harmonious living space that meets all your needs and desires.

The answer depends on the scope of your project and its specific requirements, it may be necessary to hire both an architect and an engineer. An architect is typically responsible for the design of a project, including creating plans and drawings, selecting materials, and ensuring that the completed structure fits with the surrounding environment. An engineer, on the other hand, is responsible for the technical aspects of a project, ensuring that it is structurally sound, can withstand natural forces like wind and earthquakes, and meets safety codes and regulations.

Yes, of course we can. Our standard package will always include your main design idea with the one option but you will have design revisions to get this right should you wish to change it. If you want multiple options to see what can be achieved, then just let us know this when we come to measure or on the consultation call and we will tailer our package to suit you.

A measured site survey is an essential step in the planning process of any home extension project. It involves taking precise measurements of your property and buildings to produce accurate plans and elevations. This information is crucial in the design stages of your project, as it allows our architects and builders to assess the feasibility of your project, identify any potential obstacles, and create a design that works with the existing structures and landscape. At Home Extension Guru, we highly recommend getting a measured site survey performed before starting any home extension project. This ensures that the design is accurate, and the project runs smoothly without any surprises. It also provides an opportunity to identify any potential issues upfront and address them before construction begins, avoiding any costly mistakes later on. Our team of experts can guide you through this process and make sure your plans meet all of the necessary building regulations and planning permission requirements.

The pricing for all of our packages includes one full set of revisions. This means you can change as many elements of the design as you wish, but they must all be communicated to us in one batch, rather than drip fed over a period of time. We are committed to ensuring your satisfaction with our services and are open to additional revisions beyond the initial set. Any further revisions will incur a flat rate of £75 per hour, inclusive of VAT, until your plans meet your expectations.

Yes. You can apply for a domestic build over application to Severn Trent. This process is similar to that of a planning application. They will charge a small application submission fee and will require details of the proposed manhole. This should be completed as early as possible to ensure the building works can be signed off.

You can extend to the boundary in most cases. However, you should appoint a party wall surveyor or serve you a 14 day notice. Excavating within 3m of an adjoining owners property you should appoint a party wall surveyour. This is under the Party Wall Act 1996. In most cases, party wall agreements can resolve any disputes. Just speaking and coming to an agreement with your neighbour is always the best solution before any works begin. You can use many sites online where you can create your own Party Wall Notice. We use https://www.rocketlawyer.com/gb/en/sem/party-wall-notice.