The cost of a home refurbishment depends on a large number of factors including:

• Location
• Size of the extension/ conversion
• Design/ complexity of the refurbishment
• Building materials
• Fitting and fixtures
• Specialists’ fees
• Planning permission fee (if required)

As such, understanding your key requirements and a creating a comprehensive budget are vital to ensure the success of your home improvement project.

The need for planning permission for home refurbishments and renovations is largely based on the design and dimensions of the changes you propose to make.

Extensions and conversions that meet the criteria and size specifications of permitted developments will not require planning permission. While refurbishments carried out on flats, maisonettes, and on properties listed in conservation areas will require planning permission.

As the criteria for the requirement for planning permission also depends on the location, it is always best to check with your local authority or even the planning portal before initiating the build.

Unequivocally yes. Most home refurbishments can increase the value of the property by 10-20%. The value gained is based on the type and extent of the renovation.

For example, updating a bathroom can increase the value of a property by 5%, while a bedroom loft conversion can increase the value of a property by as much as 20%.

It is also a good idea to check the ceiling price of properties in your neighbourhood. This way, you do not overspend on your refurbishment project.

Yes. As tempting as it may be to DIY a refurbishment project, an architect brings in numerous benefits and advantages which ultimately ensure the success of a project.

Their expertise and experience allow you to plan, design, and build the perfect extension while keeping costs down and optimising the space.

And perhaps more importantly, hiring an architect helps you to avoid the many common errors and mistakes that can occur during a refurbishment which may prove costly in the long run.

It is always best to have a detailed plan in place before the start of a refurbishment project. Changes to the plan can result in additional expenses, delays, and may even change the need and conditions of planning permission and building regulations approval.

If mandatory changes need to be made, it is best to consult the experts. They can advise you on the feasibility of the changes and how they may be incorporated into the original design.

The suitability of a property depends on the type and extent of the refurbishment. Different refurbishments have different criteria for viability. For instance, home extensions (such as rear and side extensions) need to consider the area available within the property, while loft conversions must take into account the roof space and head room available.

That being said, most properties and homes are suitable for extensions, conversions, or renovations.