The real cost of adding a home extension
Every year, thousands of homeowners choose to expand their living space with an extension. While it can seem an appealing option and an alternative to moving house, it can be quite an undertaking.
Before you embark on a home extension project, be sure to explore all the pros and cons. One of the big considerations is the cost. Always bear in mind that the building costs are just one part of it – there are lots more expenses involved. Let’s take a look at the real cost of adding a home extension.
Building costs
According to the Job Prices website, the building work only adds up to 59% of the total of an extension. Builders’ quotes can vary widely, so it’s worth getting a few quotes before making a decision. You should ask for references of past customers and speak to them about the job – it can be hugely valuable in helping you decide who to work with.
Design, planning and Building regs
Around 15% of an extension’s cost is the architectural design of your new build, the cost of planning permission and checks from a structural engineer. All these elements are essential to the extension process – there aren’t any shortcuts.
Kitchen/bathroom costs
Interestingly, the Job Prices site doesn’t include the costs of fitting and furnishing your new extension, which can sometimes double the build cost or more, depending on the type of extension you’re building and what’s involved.
Many projects are kitchen extensions. Installing a new kitchen can cost anything from £7,000 to £30,000 depending on how many units you include, the level of quality and the types of appliance.
If you’re adding a new bathroom, cloakroom or en-suite within the extension the costs are lower, but still in the region of £2,000 to £5,000 depending on the layout and quality.
Plumbing and electrical costs
Any kind of extension will need electrical work for lighting, plug sockets and appliances. You will also need plumbing for radiators, underfloor heating and for a kitchen or bathroom. Something you may not have considered is whether your existing boiler will be able to cope with the additional heating demand. Seek advice on whether you need to budget for a boiler upgrade as part of your extension.
Decorating
Most builders consider a job as complete once plaster is on the walls. The next decision is whether to DIY the painting and decorating – which can take a lot of time, especially for woodwork – or pay to get an expert in. Depending on where you live, a painter/decorator can charge £250 to £500 to paint a medium sized room.
Flooring and furnishing
Don’t forget that once each room is painted it will need flooring and furniture. Again costs vary widely depending on the size of the room, what’s needed and the level of quality you’re going for. Choosing furnishings is often the most enjoyable part of a building job, so make the most of it!
Tax!
And as if the totals you’ve reached so far aren’t enough, you’ll be charged VAT on everything too! This is worth bearing in mind for professional quotes – make sure you know whether or not they include 20% VAT.
As you can see, the costs can quickly mount up for a home extension. Yet most people that have successfully completed their extension will tell you it’s well worth it. The key is to go into the project with a full understanding of what’s involved and the likely costs. Add in a 5% contingency fund for unexpected developments, and you’ll be on track to achieve the home of your dreams. For more advice and insight, visit pages such as New Home Style