Before you commit to a home extensions in Adelaide, it is important to do your research and know what you are getting into. Home renovations don’t always work out neatly as they do on television. Here are five key things to be aware of before committing to a home renovation.
1. Obtaining Local Council Permits
Some homeowners are shocked to find out that they can’t just make changes to their home as desired. In most places across Australia, you will have to obtain some kind of permit to have major construction work done on your home, typically an extension or changing the structure of your property.
The last thing that you want is to pay for work on your house only to have to revert it because violates local council regulations. By checking with your local municipality, you can avoid such problems and ensure that your construction efforts don’t require revision.
Most good contractors will advise and organise any necessary permits for you, which is a major benefit to working with a professional renovation specialist.
2. Bring in an Architect
Architects can be costly, but depending on your project, they can also be a highly valuable resource to ensure your home extension is just as you are wanting. An architect can provide suitable advice on all aspects of your project and conceptualise a design that meets your specifications. Another option is hiring home builders in Adelaide that provide everything from the design concept to final finishes. Spending time and finances in the design phase will likely making the project run smoother, be more efficient and result in the extension that you’re most satisfied with.
3. Finances of your Project
Planning your finances for a home extension is essential to know what you can work with and making sure that costs don’t run over budget. A good idea is to add a 10% buffer to your budget estimate to cover for any unforeseen events or expenses.
In planning a budget, you should keep in mind the adage that ‘you have to spend money to make money’ or save money for that matter over time. For instance, spending more to make the space energy efficient, may increase the value of the home and also help to lower your energy bills. Such considerations should always be made and your budget mapped out accordingly when financially planning for your project.
4. Check with Neighbours
In addition to any permits, there are some extensions that may interfere or may be problematic for a neighbouring property. It is always beneficial, especially to the relationship that you have with neighbours, to talk to them first about any changes that you may make.
If you come close to infringing on their property line, for instance, it is worth having a good discussion with your neighbours, telling them your plans and hearing their thoughts. By talking to them, they may appreciate the consideration and end up being okay with the changes you want to make.
5. Get Quotes
Getting multiple quotes serves two purposes. For one, it allows you to find the most reasonable price. But it also allows you to gauge the strengths and drawbacks of different contractors, while also getting ideas and beneficial advice from each one. In getting quotes, you should always enquire about materials used, qualifications, their building process and timelines, and feel comfortable with their approach. It is important you have a level of trust in the contractor that you go with, given that they will be working on your precious home. While costs need to be a factor for consideration, you should never choose a contractor on price alone.
For quality home, kitchen and bathroom renovations in Adelaide, Finch Constructions is renowned for its top-notch workmanship and delivering extensions that people love and relish to live in. Give us a call today to speak to one of our friendly staff about your next home extension.