To help homeowners who are thinking of extending, DBCP has launched a free online guide to extending your living space.
Building an extension or converting your loft can be a daunting prospect. There are lots of things to consider before you start but, by choosing DBCP for your building control service, you’re already on the right track.
The guide is packed full of useful information and, whilst not a substitute for professional advice, will give homeowners a better understanding of the main challenges they’re likely to face when extending their property and how building regulations will affect the process.
Consulting the guide ahead of starting any planning work, could help save homeowners money and ensure they follow relevant planning rules and building regulations.
The contents of the guide include:
- Building regulations – looking at what requires building regulations approval and the repercussions of not complying.
- Competent persons – how certain specialist work can be self-certified through alternative quality and inspections schemes.
- Planning and other permissions – does the project require planning and any other permissions.
- Finding experts – approaching the right people, with the required expertise, to help with your project.
- Extensions – what to consider when planning to extend your home.
- Conversions – utilising unused space in your home through things like loft, basement and cellar or garage conversions.
- Alterations – looking at making alterations to your home and how building regulations could affect your plans.
- Energy Efficiency – helping to prevent climate change, save money on bills and much more with energy efficient practices.
David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP commented: “We’re seeing an increasing number of people extend their homes. I would urge anyone thinking of extending their home to read this free guide and understand the requirements and regulations around home extension projects. It could ensure they avoid any of the unwanted costs and consequences that come with non-compliance.”
As a homeowner, before you construct or change a building in certain ways, you must check if you need both planning permission and building regulations approval. Building regulations approval is separate from planning permission and you might need both depending on the scale of your project. Having a conversation with DBCP before you begin your project could save you a lot of time and money.
“Our new guide is a good starting point for homeowners looking for information on extending their property, however, if they have any questions concerning building regulations then DBCP’s team of building control surveyors are always ready to help.”
To view the full guide completely free of charge, please visit here.
Or, for expert building control advice and guidance, please get in touch with the DBCP team here or call 0333 880 2000.