want to build a single storey extension and not sure how to start?

catterlen

We would like a single storey extension to the back of the house- 3 of the neighbours in our street have similar (varying ages) extensions, and I am happy that I need to find out about permitted developments/building control etc.
Basically, I don't know how to start the process...
Would I get an architect to draw up some plans and expect them to deal with planning regs/building control, then get a builder to quote, or do I get a builder to draw the plans? Is it usually one company that does everything inc the plans, or a separate architect and builder?
What we want is a single storey extension- it would fit with the permitted dev. 3-6m extension regs I think, but again we need to look into this once plans are drawn. The reason is to add a small bedroom/study + bathroom downstairs for a disabled relative who cannot use the stairs.
I realise plumbing etc costs more than a simple living room type extension, we would have to relocate our current kitchen to the new extension, and probably incorporate the current conservatory somehow into it. Anyhow, these details are probably not so relevant at this stage, just a place to start would be good....
Also, if there are similar threads to this (i searched but couldn't see) please feel free to re-direct me.
Thanks

diable

Ask the neighbours.

mummyroysof3

Get some people who do plans to give you a quote for the drawings and some ideas of what's possible. Builders won't give a quote for the build without plans in my experience

catterlen

diable wrote: »

Ask the neighbours.

Ah, yes, we thought of that tactic but the extensions were done for the former neighbours, who have since moved on...

catterlen

mummyroysof3 wrote: »

Get some people who do plans to give you a quote for the drawings and some ideas of what's possible. Builders won't give a quote for the build without plans in my experience

Thanks for this. WHo would be "the people who do plans"? Are we talking architects/structural engineers, or a project manager for this?

mummyroysof3

Do you know anyone that could recommend one? I rang a few people from the local paper who where architects or just said plans drawn for extensions in the advert.

catterlen

mummyroysof3 wrote: »

Do you know anyone that could recommend one? I rang a few people from the local paper who where architects or just said plans drawn for extensions in the advert.

Thanks, I might try this- we get a local magazine so I will have a look through and see what I find