what do I need to do before requesting an estimate?

We are more than happy to have a chat about what your plans are before any steps are taken however, before we can provide a [free of charge] estimate, we would require architectural drawings.

You will need to contact an architect who will be able to chat through your ideas/property and what your options are etc. They would then draw up the plans and put through the Local Planning Authority for planning permission and also a Building Control Body for building regulations approval.

If any steel is needed, the architect will need calculations from a Structural Engineer however, your architect can advise further on this.

Once your architectural plans are complete, you would send your plans to us (or whichever company you are looking to use) and we would then be able to give you an itemised estimated cost. If you were happy with this, we’d confirm your booking in the diary (we request a deposit to secure a date)

How much will an extension cost?

It really is difficult to provide even a rough estimate without knowing what the requirements are. Sometimes, we are able to provide a guideline cost prior to receiving plans however, we would arrange to speak with you and view the property first.

how soon would you start?

We are generally booked 12/18+months in advance and so would provide an estimate only after ensuring our next available date is available.

We can provide an estimated timeframe for when works can begin however, we aim to keep our customers updated in the months prior as this can change slightly. There are many factors that can affect the timeframe of a project; whilst we aim to plan for this as much as possible, works can sometimes end sooner/later than planned.

how do i secure my booking?

We do now request a (non-refundable) deposit in order to secure your booking. Due to the nature of our work, should a project be withdrawn, it can be difficult to fill the gap at short notice. Understandably, large home renovations require notice and planning for our customers, as well as ourselves.

How long will it take?

Again, there is unfortunately no clear cut answer to this as is entirely dependent on the type/size of extension. We would advise however to expect a minimum of 12 weeks.

Once an estimate has been agreed and a date secured, prior to work commencing, we will provide a projected timeline of a project from start to finish. Any updates will also be communicated to the customer throughout.

Is the estimate cost final?

No. 2021 saw a considerable increase in industry/building materials cost which negatively impacted many of us in the trade. To avoid this, we now look to review estimates 4-6 months prior to planned work commencing. Prices may change to account for this if necessary, but will be discussed with the customer.

In addition to this, we estimate costs as accurately as possible. Often a customers requirements can change during the build and as such, the estimate will be reviewed and altered accordingly.

When will I need to pay the full cost?

Prior to work beginning, we will send our customers a payment schedule. Generally speaking, a customer can expect to pay 20% of the total cost when works begin. This will then be followed by e.g. 25%, 25%, 25% payment increments dependent on the meeting of agreed milestones; the final 5% once works are complete.

Will I need to move out of the property?

This isn’t necessary although some customers have preferred to, for a short time. We work to minimise as much disruption as possible; We will build the external walls and knock-through existing walls only when necessary. There is of course disruption to be expected however, we will be on hand to talk through plans and answer any questions.

Can I use another tradesman I know for some of the works?

Yes. We will advise our customers on what services we can provide within the timeframes/costs available. Customers will often request to complete their own painting/tiling or have family/friends to complete plumbing, electrics etc.

Do you supply and fit kitchen furnishings?

No. This would be arranged by the customer. Whilst we can give a recommendation for a carpentry business we usually work with, this would be the decision of the customer.