Starting a new home improvement project is a daunting process and you may not know where to start, or who to contact first- should you call a builder or do you need an architect? Generally speaking, unless it is an extremely small project we would recommend that you get professional advice at an early stage. However, to get the most out this and to keep control of the project it is worth spending a little time familiarising yourself with the process of getting your extension* designed, approved and built. The list below breaks the whole process down into 8 stages which you can go through one at a time to help guide you through the whole process. At any time you can also refer to the technical advice pages for more detailed information on specific building and design issues.
* 'Extension' is used to mean any sort of addition or alteration such as a loft conversion, side/rear/1 or 2 storey extensions, garage conversion or garden room. |