Discover the benefits of a extending your home in Reigate
Key Advantages
Increased Property Value
One of the most compelling reasons to extend your home is the potential for a significant increase in property value. Reigate is a sought-after location, and expanding your living space can make your property more attractive to potential buyers. A well-designed extension can provide additional bedrooms, a larger kitchen, or even a home office, all of which are highly desirable features in the current real estate market. Investing in an extension can yield a high return on investment when it’s time to sell.
Enhanced Living Space
An extension provides the perfect opportunity to create the living space you’ve always dreamed of. Whether it’s an open-plan kitchen and dining area, a luxurious primary suite, or a cosy family room, extending your home allows you to tailor the space to your specific needs and preferences. This customization enhances your overall living experience, making your home more functional and enjoyable for you and your family.
Avoid the Hassle of Moving
Moving to a new home can be stressful and expensive. By extending your current home, you can avoid the upheaval of relocating and the associated costs, such as estate agent fees, stamp duty, and moving expenses. Staying in your familiar area, close to friends, schools, and local amenities, offers a sense of continuity and stability for your family.
Modernisation and Energy Efficiency
Home extensions provide an excellent opportunity to incorporate modern design elements and improve energy efficiency. You can integrate eco-friendly features such as improved insulation, energy-efficient windows, and solar panels, reducing your carbon footprint and lowering utility bills. Modernising your home through an extension ensures it meets contemporary standards and enhances its overall appeal.
Personalisation and Lifestyle Enhancement
Every family has unique needs and lifestyles. An extension allows you to personalise your home to suit your specific requirements. Whether you need a dedicated home office, a gym, a playroom for the kids, or a spacious entertainment area, extending your home enables you to create spaces that enhance your daily life and cater to your hobbies and interests.
When setting out on your house extension journey
The first thing you should consider is Navigating the planning system. Do you need planning permission, or can your extension be carried out under Permitted Development for Home Extensions in Reigate, Surrey.
Embarking on a home extension project in Reigate, Surrey, involves more than design and construction. Understanding the local planning policies and permitted development rights is crucial to ensuring a smooth legal process.
Additional information Householder Extensions and Alterations SPG
Understanding Planning Permission
What is Planning Permission?
Planning permission is the approval required from the local planning authority (Reigate and Banstead Borough Council) for significant alterations to your property. This ensures that any development aligns with local policies and preserves the area’s character and appearance.
When is Planning Permission Required?
You will need to apply for planning permission if your extension:
Exceeds Permitted Development Rights: If your extension’s size, height, or location exceeds the limits set by permitted development rights (more info below).
Alters the Appearance of a Listed Building: To protect their historical and architectural significance, special considerations are required for listed buildings and properties in conservation areas.
Changes the Use of the Property: For example, converting a residential property into commercial use.
Significantly Impacts Neighbours: Developments that could significantly impact neighbouring properties’ privacy, light, or outlook.
Applying for Planning Permission
The application process involves:
- Submitting Detailed Plans: Including site plans, elevation drawings, and design specifications.
- Consulting with Neighbours: Informing and possibly negotiating with neighbours to address concerns.
- Compliance with Local Policies: Ensuring your plans adhere to Reigate and Banstead Borough Council’s Local Plan policies.
- Paying a Fee: Submitting a planning application has associated fees, which vary depending on the project’s scope.
The council will review your application before making a decision, considering factors such as the impact on the local environment, community, and infrastructure.
Permitted Development Rights
What are Permitted Development Rights?
Permitted development rights allow homeowners to make specific changes to their property without the need for planning permission. These rights are subject to specific conditions and limitations to ensure developments are in keeping with the local area.
Key Criteria for Permitted Development
- Size and Scale: Single-story rear extensions must not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than 3 meters for an attached house or 4 meters for a detached house. For double-storey extensions, the limit is 3 meters.
- Height: The maximum height of a single-story extension is 4 meters. Double-story extensions must not exceed the height of the existing house’s eaves.
- Location: Extensions must not cover more than half of the land surrounding the original house. They should not extend beyond the principal elevation (front) or a side elevation facing a highway.
- Materials: The materials used must be similar in appearance to the existing house to ensure visual harmony.
- Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas: Special rules apply, and permitted development rights are more restricted in these areas to protect their unique character.
How to Confirm Permitted Development Rights
Before commencing any work, it’s advisable to:
- Consult with the Local Planning Authority: Reigate and Banstead Borough Council can provide guidance on whether your planned extension falls within permitted development rights.
- Obtain a Lawful Development Certificate: This is not mandatory but can provide peace of mind that your extension is legally compliant. It can also be beneficial when selling your property in the future.
For additional information on permitted development, you might want to read this previous blog.
Homeowner Tips for a Smooth Extension Project
Hire a Professional
Engage an expert with a proven track record, such as ABM, who is familiar with Reigate and Banstead planning policies and who can navigate the application process.
Early Communication
Inform your neighbours early in the process to address any concerns and maintain good relationships.
Stay Informed
Regularly check for updates to planning policies and permitted development rights, as regulations can change.
Conclusion
Extending your home in Reigate, Surrey, can significantly enhance your living space and add value to your property. However, to ensure a successful outcome, it’s essential to understand and comply with planning permission and permitted development regulations.
Whilst we at ABM have over 25 years of experience in extending and building new homes, we always refer to Reigate and Banstead planning policies to ensure we offer you the correct advice. By doing your due diligence and engaging with the local planning authority, we can navigate the complexities of home extensions with confidence and ease, saving you time – money and stress.