Planning a house extension is an exciting project, but knowing where to begin can be overwhelming. Whether you’re looking to add extra living space, a new kitchen, or even an office, starting the process right is key to a successful extension. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the initial steps of planning a house extension, ensuring everything goes smoothly from the start.

1. Assess Your Needs and Define Your Goals

The first step in planning a house extension is understanding exactly what you want to achieve. Take some time to assess your current home and identify what’s missing or could be improved. Here are a few questions to consider:

  • Do you need more space for your growing family?
  • Are you looking to extend your kitchen or create an open-plan living area?
  • Do you need a new office space for remote work?

Defining your goals early on will help shape the design and ensure the extension meets your needs.


2. Set a Budget

Once you know what you want from your extension, the next step is setting a realistic budget. This will guide your decision-making throughout the project, from materials to contractors. Consider all aspects of the build, including:

  • Construction costs (labour and materials).
  • Architectural and design fees.
  • Planning permissions and building regulations.
  • Contingency funds for unexpected expenses (usually around 10-15% of the total budget).

It’s essential to keep your budget flexible, as costs can rise due to unforeseen issues or changes in material prices.


3. Check Planning Permissions

Not all extensions require planning permission, but it’s crucial to check before starting any construction. In Edinburgh and the Lothians, many single-storey extensions can be built under permitted development rights, which means you may not need formal permission. However, larger or more complex extensions, especially in conservation areas or listed buildings, will likely require full planning approval.

Your local council’s planning office or a professional architect can help you understand what permissions are needed for your specific project.


4. Hire an Architect or Designer

To turn your ideas into a practical design, you’ll need to hire an architect or designer. They’ll help you create a detailed plan that not only looks great but also adheres to local building regulations and maximises the available space. A good architect will also help you optimise the natural light, energy efficiency, and overall flow between the new extension and the existing structure.

Additionally, they can guide you through the planning application process and provide valuable insights on materials and layout.


5. Choose a Reliable Builder

Once you have your design and budget in place, it’s time to choose a reliable builder. This is one of the most critical steps, as the quality of the build will largely depend on the expertise of the contractor. Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbours, or look for local builders who are members of professional organisations like the Federation of Master Builders.

Always check references and visit past projects to see their work first-hand. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, request detailed quotes and compare them based on both cost and quality.


6. Understand Building Regulations

Your extension will need to meet local building regulations that ensure the structure is safe and energy-efficient. Building regulations cover areas such as structural stability, fire safety, insulation, and ventilation. Your architect or builder should be able to handle this for you, but it’s important to be aware of these requirements and factor them into your planning.

Failing to comply with building regulations could result in delays or fines, so make sure all necessary inspections are scheduled during the build.


7. Finalise the Design and Get Started

With your budget, permissions, and builder in place, you can finalise the design and start the build. Make sure you’ve got a clear timeline for the project and keep communication open with your builder to ensure everything stays on track.

A well-planned extension should not only enhance the functionality of your home but also add significant value, making it a wise investment in the long run.


Conclusion

Starting a house extension can feel overwhelming, but by following these key steps, you’ll be on the right path to a successful project. From setting a budget to hiring the right builder, careful planning is essential to achieving the home of your dreams. At Sawmill Contracts Ltd, we’ve helped countless homeowners across Edinburgh and the Lothians  build high-quality extensions that enhance their space and add value to their homes.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your extension project and get expert advice tailored to your needs.