Is it worth staying here while an extension is being built, or should we go elsewhere?

Since the extension of an addition is likely to cause considerable disruption to the homeowners' everyday lives, they understandably want to know how long the process will take. Then there's the dilemma of whether or not to stay put while your house is transformed into a construction zone. To help you make an informed decision, we've included some additional details about what goes into constructing an extension.

Just how long does it take to construct an extension?

Extension construction takes time because it is not a mass-produced item, and the length of time it takes depends on factors such as the extension's complexity and any unforeseen issues that may develop during the build.

A basic extension, such as a 3-meter back extension, might be built in around three to four months. The construction duration could increase to 6 months if a larger or double-height back extension is added. It's also important to consider the design and planning phases, which will be different depending on whether or not you have planning approval or encounter other issues.

If you hire an architect and factor in all the necessary time for planning, designing, bidding, and constructing the extension, you're looking at a minimum of ten months and likely closer to a year. Many situations allow for a far shorter time frame, though. Such a loft conversion, with a back dormer, may often be completed in six to eight weeks. Many architects provide free initial consultations, which are the greatest method to obtain a better idea of how long the project will take.

We need to stay on track with the project, but how?

There have been multiple reports over the years of contractors who promise to finish an extension on time, only to go behind schedule. The result is a half-finished house, rising costs, and uncertainty about when the work will be completed.

For this reason, it is important to establish a solid contract with the contractor before any work is started on the project. The project's timeline and budget, with associated start and end times, should be outlined in full. In addition to designing your new addition, an architect may also manage the extension contracts and keep you updated on the progress of the project while it is built. In order to keep you on the right side of the law, it's important to hire an architect who can provide you advice on the typical forms of contract that are most appropriate for the work that will be done.

Do I need to vacate the premises during the extension's construction?

When constructing an extension, this is a common predicament. To begin, evaluate how extensive the actual labour is. Will the kitchen and bathroom be usable during the remodelling process, and if so, how will access be maintained? Is demolition taking place, and if so, is it happening in a totally separate section of the house? Asbestos and other harmful poisonous materials removal may need your temporary relocation.

Construction is inherently disruptive, so even if you think you can keep living there while work is being done, you should still expect some level of inconvenience and disruption to your daily routine. Although it may take some getting used to, many individuals are able to get by with a temporary kitchen and bathroom during an extension build, which can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

Acceptance and the monetary price

Unfortunately, not everyone has generous friends or family who can put them up for free while they wait for an extension to be built. While your property is being repaired, you may have to spend money on a short-term rental or an Airbnb. Staying in the house during extensive repairs will increase costs due to increased consumption of takeout, bottled water, and other similar items.

When deciding whether or not to move out of your house during construction, it's crucial to think about how you'll deal with the extra noise and trash. Noise from power tools such as drills, hammers, electric saws, jackhammers, and more will persist from dawn until late afternoon, and it may take some time to get used to. As construction progresses, more dirt and dust will be kicked up and scaffolding will be set up all over the land.

Dublin home extension on the horizon?

We can help you better understand your possibilities for your Dublin, Ireland, extension project. Schedule a no-obligation consultation and we can go over the specifics of the project and how much it might increase the value of your house, click here to learn more.