5 things you need to know about house extension and timings

We’ve worked with a lot of homeowners - over 2000, in fact - and if there’s one thing that shocks people the most about remodelling it’s the time it takes.

If you’re getting ready for either an extension or conversion, you should make note of these important time considerations…

On average, it takes at least 9 months from start to finish

If you’re looking to expand an everyday home, you’ll need to factor in…

• Finding the right professionals
• Measuring up your home
• Designing your new space
• Planning
• Building regulations
• Party wall matters
• Plus construction

All in all, on average, this will take at least 9 months. Keep in mind, this is an optimistic estimate too. The 9 months will depend on whether or not your planning application is successful and the state of your party wall - more on this below.

Having neighbours can make a big difference

If you have people next door, you might have what is known as a party wall. This is a wall, outbuilding, or boundary that sits within 3 meters of your proposed works. If present, you have to get consent from your neighbour before you can begin any construction - otherwise you face legal action.

Now, if you’re lucky, this can be a pretty painless process. With a party wall surveyor, you’ll put together a party wall notice to send to the affected households. If within 2 weeks of receiving this document your neighbour gives written consent, you’re golden and can proceed with your project.

However, if you fail to get consent, then you’ll need to get a party wall agreement in place and this is where your timings go out the window. Typically, even with a good party wall surveyor working for you, we recommend factoring 2 extra months to your build. That’s because both houses need to be surveyed and a contract will need to be drawn up, plus some neighbours can just be downright difficult!

Want our advice? Start buttering up next door sooner, rather than later.

Summer is the construction sweet spot

Looking for the ideal time to start construction? June, July and August are the months for you.

Summer is often favoured by contractors because of the warm weather and extended daylight hours means you’re less likely to suffer from delays. Don’t forget, many of the stages associated with construction can’t be completed in damp weather, and high winds can also prove a hazard.

Naturally, because most contractors operate on a day rate, you’ll want to keep construction time to a minimum. Not to mention, if you’re unable to live in your property during this time, you want to avoid any extra rental payments you might be making.

But winter is where the deals are at

During the colder months, especially around December, many professionals experience a quiet period. Naturally, because most people don’t want to think about renovations during the festive season. However, this can be turned to your favour.

Not only will most professionals be trying to fill up their diary for the following year - meaning you can get in early to secure a good spot - but they might be more inclined to give you a good deal.

A little money can go a long way

Sometimes, when improving your home, you’ve got to spend some money to make some money.

By this we mean, some professionals come with an extra expense, but the time they’ll save you might balance out that initial investment. For example, when you’re looking to get approval for your building regulations package, you can either use your local building control or a private approved inspector.

Private approved inspectors typically cost more but can shave weeks (even months) off your timings. Where your local authority will only look at your package once it's complete, an approved inspector will work with your team from the start, signing off each step as it's completed. This means, when it comes to the final sign off, they can do in days, what your council might take up to 8 weeks to clear.

Want to learn how long your dream project will take? The best way to get an accurate view of timings is to ask an expert. Luckily, at Resi, we provide a free consultation to handle just this! Book yours today - did we mention they’re free?