Best Review - Top 10 Tips To Reduce Costs When Building An Extension

Many homeowners have decided that moving house is not an option in the current economic climate. So, many of them are opting to build their own extensions.
If you aren't a builder and are not sure about how to tackle this project, then here are 10 top tips to help you save money.
You also remove the hassle and worry of having to sell your property!

Keep Your Design Simple

Corners and curves are more expensive to build so restrict your design to rectangles and squares. A simple pitched roof saves money, too. Use standard materials that are readily available and easy to use, like concrete block work for the walls.
Try to keep clear of drains and trees as these will increase groundwork costs.

DIY

Labour costs are expensive, between a half and two thirds of the budget, so do some of the work yourself and save money.
Consider doing the easy tasks like labouring and decorating. Perhaps you will be able to fit bathrooms and kitchens but only take on the work you feel you have both the skills and time for. Don't rush the work and read manuals to help you. If your work is sub-standard then you'll have to pay someone to put it right!

Manage the Building

Instead of allowing the builder to manage the project, you can liaise with the designer or architect and the local authority as well as find your own tradespeople.

Save on VAT

If you use a self-employed tradesman who turns over less than the threshold for VAT registration, then you will not be charged this tax. You will, therefore, save on labour costs.

Keep Friendly with the Neighbours

If you are building near the boundary of a neighbour you will need to comply with the Party Wall Act. A party wall settlement could be expensive so keep the neighbours informed of your plans all the way. If you can get an agreement in writing from them then you can avoid using surveyors.

Save on Fees

Find a designer or architect for a simple, low cost extension who will produce drawings for a fixed fee. Choose someone who has a good record for designing low cost extensions.

Avoid Cowboys

If someone is offering you a ridiculously low quotation then be very careful. Ask for references from previously completed work. Never pay in advance for materials unless with a protected account.

Take Careful Measurements

Always measure and then measure again to make sure. If you have planned in detail beforehand, then you will probably envisage potential problems. But it is better if you can measure on site and not just off plans. Changes made later will be costly.

Re-use, Re-cycle, Repair

If you are removing old floorboards, radiators, doors or units then consider cleaning them up and re-using them.
There are also second-hand items like timber and bricks that are available.
If you can't re-use, then sell them and make a little extra cash.

Buy at Trade Costs

Buying retail is extortionate. Try to negotiate trade costs and always check if they will give a discount for cash. If you bulk buy from one supplier you may get a better discount as well as save on delivery costs.
Look for end-of-line deals like carpets or appliances.

Building an extension will take a lot of detailed and important pre planning, a great deal of research to find the best suppliers and tradespeople and lots of time and patience. But the finished extension will give you years of added pleasure and satisfaction and avoid any worries you might have had about how long it would take to sell your property!

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