How much does extending cost?

[melrose]

We want to extend our house, addinga bit of extra space downstairs and a bedroom upstairs. Only trouble is we areclueless about cost, Can anyone give us any idea?

Would probably look to add a basic 2 storey extension at teh back (big garden) so no supporting walls to knock down etc.

Also if you have done it, how did you goa bout it. Did you use an architect?

Any advice much appreciated

We extended a few years ago. First step is I would definitely go to a planning clinic with a basic outline of your idea, some photo's etc to show the planning team to get them on side!

I would definitely use an architect, as at least you know what you're going to get - it makes it easier for the builders to have proper plans showing what the finished product will look like!

The structural work is usually quite quick and you think you're really getting somewhere, but then comes the internals! Prepare to spend much more than you anticipated - you tend to see other little things that could help make the space more functional/look better etc....

Cost will obviously depend upon actual size, how many windows/doors, quality of internal finishes and if you need plumbing, electrics etc to be done. Then there is redecorating and if you're connecting on to an existing area it sometimes results in new flooring being required there as well in order to match up and redecorating in this area too!

Good luck!

My sister has just had a kitchen extension on the back of her terraced house in SE London - single storey width of house (guess about 18ft) and 6ft deep plus knocking through old kitchen & dining room into one large room, electrics, plastering etc, reasonable kitchen inc. applicances, wood floor & it came in at just under £30k. They got a quote to go 2 storey & add a bathroom(but didn't get PP) & it was for £47k so probably end up £50k.

HTH