FAQ

FAQ related to house improvement and refurbishment

FAQ related to house refurbishment, new home builds, and home improvements in areas such as Finchley, Southgate, and Cockfosters.

Whether you're planning a full home renovation, a new build, or simply upgrading certain aspects of your property, our FAQ section provides answers to the most common questions. We cover everything from planning permissions and budgeting to choosing the right materials and finding reliable contractors. Our goal is to help homeowners in these areas make informed decisions and achieve high-quality results for their projects.

What are the planning permission requirements for house related projects?

Some projects fall under Permitted Development (PD) rights, meaning no planning permission is required, but others do:

Loft conversions under 40m³ (terraced) or 50m³ (detached/semi) usually don’t need permission.
House extensions under 3m (terraced) or 4m (detached) may be PD, but larger ones require planning approval.
Basement excavations nearly always require planning permission due to structural and environmental concerns.
It’s crucial to check with the local council, especially in conservation areas like Barnet, Finchley, Southgate, and Cockfosters.

How long does each type of house project take to complete?

Timelines vary based on complexity:

Loft conversions: 6-12 weeks.
House extensions: 12-20 weeks.
Basement excavations: 4-9 months (longer due to structural complexity and permissions).

Unexpected delays from weather, materials, or planning approvals should always be factored in.

What are the biggest risks or challenges in house development investments?

The main risks include:

Cost overruns due to unexpected structural issues or material price increases.
Planning permission delays leading to longer project timelines.
Market fluctuations, affecting post-development property value and resale demand.
Construction challenges, especially with basement excavations, which involve significant engineering risks.
To mitigate risks, working with experienced architects, contractors, and surveyors is essential.

You have another question?

Please feel free to share your thoughts with us. We will do our best to answer any questions you may have about transforming your home into a more comfortable and functional living space.