A single storey side extension is a cost-effective way to add more space to your home. Like all building work you carry out on your home however, there are many things that you need to take into consideration. In this article we are going to cover the most important of them. At Bristol Builders Network we want to make sure your project is a success. We can help you with all aspects, from legal to planning, and the finishing touches.
Single Storey Side Extension : The Right to Light
Whether your single storey extension is to the side or to the rear of your home, you need to take your neighbours into consideration. You cannot by law block all natural light to your neighbours windows. Be aware though that reducing the amount of light to your neighbours home is permitted. You will most likely only encounter this problem if you live in a city area where houses are close together.
When planning your extension you will most likely be adding a bathroom. The good news here is that unlike in the past where there had to be a lobby between a WC and other rooms, you can now place your WC or shower room anywhere you want it. All WCs however must have ventilation, and a wash basin.
Height
In the past there used to be legal minimum height requirements for building works. These no longer exist. This means that you can have the ceilings in your single storey side extension at the exact height you want them. If you have sloping ceiling, you should still aim to have at least half of the floor area with a ceiling height of at least 2.1m.
Insurance for your Side Extension
When planning your single storey side extension it is important to get site insurance. Your normal house insurance will not cover structural alterations. Once your extension is completed, it will then have to be added to your current home insurance plan. BBN will check to ensure that all tradesmen we recommend for you have insurance, but it also well worthwhile taking out your own site insurance.
Basement Space
One thing you might not have considered for your side extension is basement space. In the same way a loft would add room to your home, so would making sure that the basement is dug down during construction. In this sense you would be adding a single storey extension on two levels.
Whatever your designs and plans for your single storey extension, it is very important you are aware of the building regulations. Even if planning permission is not required, you must still apply for permitted development. Once your plans are approved you can start work after 48 hours.
Lastly, to ensure you don’t overspend, set your budget first. The amount you spend on your single storey extension will depend on many factors. These will include whether you will be adding a kitchen or a bathroom, if your extension will just be for added living space.