5 Things to Consider For Second Storey Additions
If you’re looking to increase your living space, then you’ve no doubt considered a second storey addition for your existing property. There are a host of benefits that come with a home extension, but there are also many things second storey considerations before getting underway.
Here are five top tips from the Nexus team to think about before signing on the dotted line.
Check Your Home Block
When it comes to second storey additions, some blocks are simply easier to work with than others. Overall height of the second storey, heritage restrictions and privacy for other residents are all factors that will need to be considered.
The height of your brand new second storey addition needs to be considered, so sloping sites are often seen as a better option. On these sites, second-level renovations can generally be fitted to be lower enough than the standard second storey.
Find A Registered Builder
When searching for a registered builder, it’s always best to speak to and meet with more than one, in order to get maximum bang for your buck. You want to ensure you’re on the same page and that you can work well together. Get several detailed quotes in writing, and don’t forget to ask about future schedules – finding out if they’re busy or quiet may determine if they can keep to your deadline.
Timeframes for projects are important, so get an estimation of how long the project with take to complete. Ask for examples of previous work, and check their references. At Nexus, we are always happy to sit down with our clients to discuss all their building needs.
Check Building Regulations
It’s imperative to get in contact with your local council to ascertain what their design codes and restrictions are. The build will need both planning and building approval first, and it must comply with local zoning regulations.
Most by-laws require a setback from the boundary fences, and this setback may potentially be increased when it comes to second-storey additions. If you’re inside a cyclone, fire or flood zone, additional building standards might also need to be satisfied.
A before and after shot of one of our second storey additions in Swanbourne.
Think About Costs
You’ll want to make sure you’ve covered all the corners when you’re building up, just to make sure your budget can cover everything.
The existing home could potentially need to be reinforced to take the extra weight of the new addition, for example, so keep this in mind when sorting out your finances, as well as other expenses such as the need for scaffolding and temporary relocation.
Do Your Research
Finally, it’s always good to plan ahead so you don’t overcapitalise. Find out how much your house is worth, as well as what is happening in your local market, so you’re completely aware of what your house’s selling price may be. A professional appraisal or some taking the time to conduct some in-depth market research should be able to give you a realistic idea of where your budget should be at.
Thinking about building up? Then talk to one of the friendly team at Nexus today about all your second storey considerations. Contact us today!