Thinking of extending house

[cooperbug]

Hi

Just wondering if anyone can offer any advice. We are thinking of extending our three bedroom semi detached house to gain more downstairs living space.

Can anybody tell me where we need to start and what we need to think about now?

Many thanks

We started by asking around for architect recommendations then they came round for a quick look (no charge) round to see if what we wanted was possible/ advisable.
Same with choosing builders

Are there any houses on your street / locally that have done something similar? You can access planning applications online - if you go on your local council's website, you can usually search by road name. You can see the plans people have drawn up. The plans usually have the name of the architect on them too (useful for knowing they have a relationship with the council).

As a previous poster has said, some architects will visit for free just to give you some ideas.

Talking to a architect was the first thing we did..

First thing to do is to establish where your drains and sewers are and whether you will be allowed to build over them.

We got a couple of architects round for ideas and quotes. We found they were able to tell us what was possible and how easy or not it would be. For example are you knocking load bearing walls down? Have you got drains you need to build over?

You may not need planning permission, it depends how big your build is. We found builders wouldn't give proper quotes without plans.

It doesn't necessarily need to be complex - if you're in a 3 bed semi with a typical layout you can either go out at the side or back. Builders might be able to give you an idea too if you know of any friends who have had building work done.

Thanks for all of the replies so far everyone

Google map your road and any roads with similar houses to see who has extended and then look at those on your council's website for their drawings.

Any drains etc can be relocated beyond the new extension but will add to the cost.

I can't advise on architects because I drew up the plans myself and the architect just copied them and submitted them to planning. But mine was a very simple single storey kitchen extension and double garage conversion.

Think about what space you are trying to create. Don't skimp just save up for longer.