Small toilet extension

felinefancy

Evening,

With my father moving in with us and just one bathroom, we're looking at a small 4.72m2 extension for a toilet and sink (or even a wet room with shower in if possible).  Neither of us have a clue about these sort of things or where to start.

We're looking to use an existing external wall outside our back door and then it's just building it in, a window, roof, then the plumbing etc.  Nothing complicated.

Could anyone kindly advise the steps we need to take to even get started.  What's the first thing we should do etc.  I've put out a request for quotes from builders but imagine that's not the priority yet!! 

Many thanks if anyone can help.

stuart45

You'll either need some detailed plans drawn up for Building Control, or just a basic one and use a Building Notice. If you're using a builder, it's probably better to have the full plans application, as he can see exactly what needs doing and can price the job from them. 
However, a small job like this is possible without any issues on a Building Notice.

ThisIsWeird

Hi FF.

Do you have a plan of your house, to which you could indicate where you'd want this new loo?

FreeBear

felinefancy said: With my father moving in with us and just one bathroom, we're looking at a small 4.72m2 extension for a toilet and sink (or even a wet room with shower in if possible).  Neither of us have a clue about these sort of things or where to start.

If you can stretch it to 2.4m by 2.4m internally, it won't cost much more.

Why 2.4m - It is a multiple of 1.2m which is the standard width of (most) sheet materials. Saves on wastage, and 2.4x2.4m is a reasonable size for two people. Your father may need assistance in later years, and the extra space will be appreciated.

One thing to consider - Where are your drains located in relation to the planned bathroom ?

If you don't have easy access to a foul water drain, that would scupper the plans or add a big chunk to the overall cost.

Section62

felinefancy said:

We're looking to use an existing external wall outside our back door and then it's just building it in, a window, roof, then the plumbing etc.  Nothing complicated.

What kind of existing external wall?  It would need to be suitable for use as an internal wall, or adaptable to keep damp out and heat in.  Would the existing back door be the means of access into the toilet?  If so, is there other access to the back garden, and other means of exiting the house other than by the front door?

I'd echo FreeBear's point about size - in addition to the materials and cost points, building regs require the accessibility of toilet/bathroom facilities to be considered - if you make it too small it may not comply with regs.

Ideally the first step is to find an architect to take this on as a small project.  Also don't limit yourself to what you've currently got in mind - ask them about other options such as creating space for the toilet in a different room and creating a new living room as the extension.  Doing that may be necessary to resolve some of the practical and building regulations issues.