Many properties provide potential for expansion – either up, out or even down. Providing building works are undertaken sensibly, such work can add value to your home while giving your family more room to live and work.
With a little imagination and some expert advice, you could add a conservatory, convert your loft space into the home office or spare room you’ve always wanted, or even excavate a cellar or basement.
Its also useful for those looking to improve their property before putting it on the market, or for homebuyers planning to take on a property with a view to developing it.
This RICS guide offers advice to homeowners considering developments to their home.
Find an RICS surveyor
If you have read the guide, are planning a building project and want independent, impartial advice from a qualified professional with good local knowledge, contact us.
To find a chartered surveyor in your area, visit our Find a Surveyor website at www.ricsfirms.com.
T +44 (0)870 333 1600
E contactrics@rics.org.
Further reading
The Property Makeover Price Guide: organising and budgeting for home improvements
A guide to organising and budgeting for home improvement or development is available from BCIS – The Building Cost Information Service of RICS.
It includes:
- Prices for more than 1300 different types of work, including common defects (eg replacing gutters), common alteration works (eg installing double glazing) and total project works (eg adding a conservatory)
- Practical advice on how to plan for building work
- Major property problems – what they will cost to fix
- Alterations and extensions – the issues and typical costs
- Planning permission and building regulations
- Employing a contractor or builder – important considerations and advice
Price £17.99
Published by BCIS
May 2007
ISBN 978 1 904829 52 2
To order, call 0870 333 1600 or alternatively email sales@bcis.co.uk
Or visit www.bcis.co.uk/propertymakeoverguide
