London Loft Conversions
London Loft Conversions
Hopefully, you’ve been following our blog series on Modern Attics that have detailed, very specifically, the process of building extensions from the early planning stages to searching for the right building contractors.
Read all previous parts before concluding with this one:
So now onto the final stage… the build itself.
Once you have picked your builder, make sure that you have a contract that you both agree on and be sure that the contract is completed. Try to agree on a timetable that has a predetermined completion date that has flexible workaround times either side of it.
It is possible that during the building process your original plans may change or evolve to some extent.
Payment should be arranged depending on the contractors’ demands. There’s nothing wrong with paying a deposit but it isn’t always required and there isn’t a standard operating procedure. If you do provide a down payment, agree to pay only for the first stage of work in advance. Once the extension is finished, make sure you are fully satisfied with the work before paying the outstanding fees. Never allow yourself to go unsatisfied with the work. Remember you’re the boss! Don’t be afraid to say “No” Keep in mind that you are in charge and it is your money.
Things to consider
You may be forced to deal with a large number of all sorts of contractors including builders, plumbers, plasterers, roofers, and other assorted specialists. You may have to get used to their presence on an almost daily basis so be prepared for six or so weeks of activity.
If there are any changes you want to make once the project has begun, speak to your Project Manager or the contractors you have hired. Think of your budget, think of what it is that you want, don’t feel pressure to do something you don’t want to necessarily do.
This is why the early stages of planning are so important so you have budgeted for the right amount but kept aside enough in case there are any more additions required to complete the project. Consider these as “emergency funds.†Also take into account (in your budget) for Planning Permission and Building Regulations application fees too.
Don’t over-stretch yourself financially on this. You should only take on a building extension project if you feel that you’re finances will not be secure enough by the end.
Once work is completed you must be sure that there is enough money set aside for the costs of decorating the new extension and for any new furniture.
There is always an option for doing the work yourself in order to save on costs, but it will take much longer and the quality of the extension could suffer.
For more information on building extensions please contact us. Thanks for reading.
