building cost for extension

snowmen

avenida wrote: »

Hi Snowmen

We had been toying with the idea of doing a double side extension, we got some rough plans done from an architect f.o.c. and went to 3 builders and for a 6x4m extension 2 storey we got 3 quotes just for a shell - £30K, 35k and 50K, we still would like to do it but are worried about going over budget and being able to stick the disruption

good luck whatever you decide

my sentiments exactly. Next door have an extension so I know we will have to pay extra for deeper foundations as they had to for theirs. My worry is how much it will cost to finish with all and furnish rather than just the build price (and build a contingency in too just to be safe). Next door also got wildly different quotes too which is worrying!

englandsno7_2

Action Cancer run a scheme called Improve don't Move. You get an hours consultation in your home with an architect for a £40 donation to Action Cancer. It might be worth getting a professional opinion about what you can / cant do and also do your bit for charity. Best of luck with whatever you do![/QUOTE]

Just checked the website which states all visits should be completed by Nov 2009 so don't know if this scheme is still running

Mistral001

avenida wrote: »

Hi Snowmen

We had been toying with the idea of doing a double side extension, we got some rough plans done from an architect f.o.c. and went to 3 builders and for a 6x4m extension 2 storey we got 3 quotes just for a shell - £30K, 35k and 50K, we still would like to do it but are worried about going over budget and being able to stick the disruption

good luck whatever you decide

Why would any architect, draw up plans free of charge? How can they run a business by doing work for free? Are you sure he/she was an architect?

avenida

Mistral001 wrote: »

Why would any architect, draw up plans free of charge? How can they run a business by doing work for free? Are you sure he/she was an architect?

Yes defo an architect he did the drawings for my friends extension, the plans are just rough but enough to get a quote done

polpoo

You need a fairly well detailed specification and drawings to make sure you are comparing apples with apples.
You are more than likely only going to do this once, so its worth investing a bit of time and money in getting it right at the beginning of the process, otherwise the builders bill can grow and grow. Can i urge you to speak to an architect before you go too far down the line. They are not as expensive as you might think and most will give you good advice, or point you in the right direction free of charge. Look for someone with experience in extending and refurbishing and i would suggest you stay away from the big firms as you will get someone fairly junior working on your project.
(and yes i am an architect!!)

polpoo

Avenida
I assumed the Action Cancer "improve dont move" is still running. there were postcards for it in the February self build show....

avenida

snowmen wrote: »

my sentiments exactly. Next door have an extension so I know we will have to pay extra for deeper foundations as they had to for theirs. My worry is how much it will cost to finish with all and furnish rather than just the build price (and build a contingency in too just to be safe). Next door also got wildly different quotes too which is worrying!

Its really hard to know what to do and once its done thats it! It would take many years to get your money back if you ever had to move! And as for trying to move now its virtually impossible, there is just not enuf buyers out there and if anyone tries to sell at market value its hard to then find somewhere to move to at a realistic price, absolute mare, thats why we have been thinking of extending, doesnt look like the housing market is going to pick up anytime soon unfortunatley

Polly

snowmen wrote: »

did you use a building contractor to do the job or did you do it yourself?

We used friends and family and my OH did a fair bit himself. Saved a fortune on labour but the stress levels were off the scale. Try getting an in-law to turn up when there are icicles hanging off the roof:D