5 Tips for Building an Addition To Your Home

Thinking About Building an Addition to Your House? Avoid Costly Mistakes With Expert Insights

If you want to make your home bigger, building an addition can be exciting…but also complicated. From permits to budgets, planning carefully is important for success, and avoiding costly mistakes. Whether you’re thinking of a small bump-out or a whole new floor, these five tips will help.

Key Takeaways

• Plan your budget with an extra 15-20% for unexpected costs.

• Get the necessary permits and follow local zoning laws.

• Use eco-friendly materials to boost long-term value.

• Inform neighbours early about your construction plans.

• Work with licensed contractors and schedule safety checks.

1. Plan Your Project Carefully Before starting construction, planning early is key, and being organized will protect your investment and help avoid delays or changes once construction starts. Adding renewable energy options can also increase your property value and save energy costs over time.

• Hire a Builder to Manage Essential Requirements: Ensure your builder secures all necessary building permits and site plans. Have them verify if there are any needed approvals from homeowner associations (HOAs) or your home's strata, if applicable.

• Rely on Your Build Team for Local Code Compliance: Your builder should be knowledgeable about zoning laws, setback rules, and building requirements. Make sure they adhere to energy efficiency standards.

• Trust Professionals for Safety Compliance: Engage a builder who ensures compliance with safety codes, including proper wiring and fire safety. 

Schedule inspections with your builder throughout the process to ensure they are adhering to the plan and your vision.

2. Set a Realistic Budget and Contingency Fund When hiring a builder, it's essential that they manage a well-thought-out budget on your behalf. Ensure that they account for costs related to permits, materials, labour, and inspections. They should also set aside an additional 15-20% to cover unexpected expenses, such as price fluctuations or hidden structural issues.

1. Include Permits and Inspections: The builder should factor in fees for development permits and inspections into the overall budget.

2. Plan for Upgrades: Ensure the builder allocates funds for potential upgrades, like enhanced windows or insulation.

3. Maintain a Contingency Fund: The builder should reserve extra funds, separate from the main budget, to handle unforeseen surprises, such as poor soil conditions or delays in material delivery.

3. Work with Professionals When hiring a builder, ensure they are an experienced design/build team capable of transforming your ideas into detailed plans while ensuring everything integrates seamlessly. The right professionals will handle the technical details and ensure that your home extension aligns with your home's style and functionality.

• Hire Reputable Contractors: Opt for licensed contractors with a strong track record in home extensions. They should provide references and showcase past successful projects.

• Ensure Plans Are Finalized Before Construction: Your builder should finalize space requirements, detailed layouts, and materials before construction begins. This proactive planning helps prevent costly changes down the line.

• Engage a Unified Design/Build Team: A cohesive team is essential for smooth communication and execution from start to finish.

A professional team brings both design and construction expertise to the table, ensuring that your extension is not only visually appealing but also built to last.

4. Prepare for Construction Impacts Hiring a builder can alleviate the disruptions that construction might bring to your life.

• Communicate with Neighbours: Share your construction timeline and contact information for concerns. Address issues like parking arrangements and noise levels.

• Utility Assessment: Have your builder evaluate your home's electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems to determine if upgrades are necessary to support the construction process.

• Temporary Arrangements: Your builder should help organize alternative spaces for cooking, storage, or living, ensuring that key areas of your home remain functional during construction.

5. Focus on Long-Term Value Use sustainable building practices and energy-efficient features to boost your home’s value. A well-designed extension should match your home’s architectural style and add useful living space. It should blend smoothly with your existing home’s look and meet your family’s needs.

• Sustainable Practices: Select a builder who prioritizes sustainable building practices and incorporates energy-efficient features into your home. They should use energy-efficient windows, locally sourced materials, and smart home technology to keep utility costs low and boost your home’s value.

• Value Enhancement: Your builder should design spaces that appeal to future buyers, like master suites or open-concept kitchens, to enhance your home's resale value. They should focus on achieving architectural harmony and balance.

• Seamless Integration: Make sure your builder matches existing materials and finishes to maintain visual continuity with your home’s layout. They should ensure that any extensions or renovations blend smoothly with your existing home’s architectural style while adding useful living space to meet your family's needs.

FAQs About Building an Extension

• Will My Property Taxes Increase After Adding an Extension? Yes, your property taxes will probably go up because you’re adding more space and value to your home. You can contact CRA for more information.

• Can I Live in My Home During Construction? Depending on the scope of work being done, this answer may be yes or no. For most invasive and large-scale renovations, we highly encourage our clients to move out during construction. If the scope of work is smaller, living in the house during construction is doable, and we make every effort to make it as pleasant as possible.

• How Will an Extension Affect My Resale Value? You’ll usually see a significant return on investment with a well-planned extension. Your home’s value can increase a lot, especially if you add useful spaces like bedrooms or bathrooms.

• Do I Need to Notify My Insurance Provider? Yes, you must tell your insurance provider about the extension as it changes your home’s value and size. Not doing so could void your coverage during and after construction.

Bring Your Vision of a Home Extension to Life! At White Wolf Homes, we know how complex adding a home extension can be. With proper planning, a realistic budget, and a focus on long-term value, your project can transform your living space and improve your property’s appeal and value. By working with our team of professionals, you can ensure a smooth process that delivers great results. Contact us today and let us help you bring your vision to life!