Extension cost & Advice

[conorcook]

Evening,

I’ve been thinking about extending my cottage for a few years, the house was extended in the 80s to add a kitchen and very small bathroom, annoyingly it was only to about two thirds of the area it could have been.

I’d like to “square off” the current extension, add a nice family bathroom.

I’m pretty keen and handy with DIY, like to learn and get stuck in, just wondering how difficult these things really are.
it would literally be foundations, two walls and a flat roof. I know a bit of work would be needed to drainage but that doesn’t worry me, Reusing the window that’s currently in the bathroom (only fitted 5 years ago) move the door from the side to the rear, utilising the window space as a new door way.

I’d like to do as much as possible but I’m also wondering how much it would cost to get this built, just the shell. Everything internally I can do.

Where do I go with getting plans drawn up etc? Can’t see this needing an architect as it’s very simple. I’ve added some pictures of the building for context, also the Floor plan from the current layout and my ideas drawn on to the at floor plan, walls in red. Hopefuly that makes sense.

Any help and advice is appreciated, Angus Scotland.

Cheers

 

[stevie888]

I guess the first question is why did the original extension not go full width for a reason: drains in the way perhaps? If it was just a case of that's all we need then enlarging shouldn't be a problem.

Find a decent architectural technician to do you some detail drawings and crack on.

 

[conorcook]

I guess the first question is why did the original extension not go full width for a reason: drains in the way perhaps? If it was just a case of that's all we need then enlarging shouldn't be a problem.

Find a decent architectural technician to do you some detail drawings and crack on.

Spoke to the owner that extended and it was apparently due to a dispute with the neighbour (who has since died) plus I get on very well with all of my neighbours so that won’t be a problem, assuming it will fall under permitted development.
no issues with drains or anything like that. There is an access to for an old rainwater drain but that wouldn’t be difficult to move.

Any idea how much an architectural technician would be charging for drawings?

 

[stevie888]

I'd guess around £4-500 but bear in mind I'm way south of the border.

Ask a few: I always gave a free first visit to discuss then a fixed fee based on that discussion and what was required/how realistic the client's expectations/likelihood of having to rsubmt planning etc.

I always advocate formalising the PD with an LDC: it makes it easier for the kids when they sell t he place to put you in a home,

 

[^woody^]

You really need to get local quotes - even more so for places in Scotland.

Estimates based on elsewhere, or even using cost indices can be way out.

Find a competent designer and they should be able to advise on costs, and also design to a budget.

Remember to include all the other associated costs and professional fees, not just the building cost. And ensure costs quoted (design and building) are all inclusive, or you are advised on what other costs may crop up.