An extension starts with a practical question: what should your home do better? You might need more room around the kitchen table, somewhere quiet to work, or a stronger connection to the garden. Write down your priorities before settling on the size or shape of the build.
Start with a short brief
Separate essentials from extras. Explain who uses the space, what feels cramped and which existing features you want to retain. Add your postcode, a few photographs and any drawings you already have. Even a simple sketch can help explain the layout you have in mind.
Check the approval route early
Some house extensions can use permitted development rights, subject to conditions and limits. Previous extensions and local restrictions can affect what is possible; flats and maisonettes follow different rules. Check the proposal with the local planning authority before assuming permission is unnecessary. Planning Portal: extensions.
Planning and building regulations are separate matters. Most extensions need building regulations approval. Ask who will arrange the drawings, structural calculations, building-control application and inspections. Planning Portal: building regulations for extensions.
Work affecting a party wall, a boundary or excavations near another building may also fall under the Party Wall etc. Act. Check whether notices are needed before agreeing a start date. GOV.UK: party-wall guidance.
Compare the whole scope
A useful quotation makes clear what is included: building work, glazing, kitchen fitting, heating, electrics, decoration and making good. Ask about fees, tax treatment, exclusions and provisional allowances, and allow room in your budget for unexpected findings. Comparing the same scope is more useful than comparing headline totals.
Plan around daily life
Discuss access, deliveries, waste removal and whether you will remain at home. Consider how you will manage if the kitchen or services are temporarily unavailable. Agree how decisions and changes will be recorded as work progresses.
Torba carries out home extensions across London and Essex. Explore our home-extension service or discuss your project. You can also call 020 3004 2223.