From Concept to Completion: Stages Involved to Create a Residential Extension
Here is a general outline of the typical stages involved with a residential extension, the RIBA Plan of Work has been used to determine the different stages. The length of time for the whole process can take anywhere between 7 months and a year:
Stage 0. Strategic Definition:
(1-2 weeks)
Discussions to understand the requirements of the client and determine whether an extension is suitable, taking into account finances, timescales and other potential options.
Stage 1. Preparation and Briefing:
(2-4 weeks)
Brief is prepared, site surveys are carried out and the design team is appointed to create some initial design proposals.
Stage 2. Concept Design:
(4-8 weeks)
Design work is carried out providing sketched drawings and models of designs until a final brief and preferred design is agreed with the client.
Stage 3. Spatial Coordination:
(2-12 weeks)
The preferred design is drawn up, an outline structural design is prepared and construction methods and building systems are considered and investigated. The planning application can then be prepared and submitted, if alterations are needed decisions can take longer.
Stage 4. Technical/Detailed Design:
(4-12 weeks)
Architectural and engineering drawings are developed and finalised following discussions with other consultants and subcontractors involved. An application for building regulations approval needs to be made at this stage and pre-construction health and safety information can be prepared. If building close to a neighbouring building or shared boundary, party wall agreements will be required at this stage too.
Stage 5. Construction:
(8-16 weeks)
The duration of this stage varies a lot depending on the size and complexity of the extension, some design features may take longer to install, and weather is also a huge factor at this stage.
Stage 6. Finishing and Commissioning:
(2-4 weeks)
Finishing touches, testing, and ensuring all systems in the extension are functional. Depending on the outcome of the tests at this stage, further work and repairs may be needed.
Stage 7. Handover:
(1-2 weeks)
Final inspections are conducted to ensure compliance with building regulations before handing over the completed extension to the client.
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