A home addition is a significant renovation project with many moving parts. Staying on top of everything from obtaining building permits to finding the right general contractor will help your project move smoothly.
TBrothers Renovation is a New York-based general contractor with an eye for detail and quality. They work with homeowners to transform homes into their dream space.
Cost
A home addition is a costly project, and it can add up quickly. You’ll need to budget for all standard building materials like wood, drywall and air ducts, as well as plumbing and electrical wiring. You’ll also need to factor in fees for an architect and contractor labor.
A general contractor with experience in building and local zoning laws can help you save on costs by ensuring your build meets compliance standards for water drainage, sewer systems, and electricity. They’ll also handle permits and hiring and managing other contractors, such as plumbers and electricians.
The size and design of the home addition can impact construction costs the most. If you’re on a tight budget, try to focus on the parts of the build that can be done DIY, such as painting, junk removal and laying some forms of flooring. You can also trim construction costs by shopping for budget-friendly materials. And don’t forget to budget for site preparation, which can include excavation and demolition.
Design
Home additions can be as simple as a bump out or as large as an extra room. They may be attached or unattached, one or two stories high, and serve many purposes from kitchens to bedrooms. However, they all have to fit within your existing home’s design and comply with local zoning regulations.
A general contractor will need to work with professional plans when building a home addition. They will also need to know the scope of the project and the costs involved. This helps them provide accurate quotes.
Some additions require a structural engineer’s input, which is usually included in the architect’s plans. The engineer will determine the dimensions of footings and the concrete slab, load-bearing walls, and columns and lintels above doors and windows.
If the project requires a foundation, the contractor will need to prepare the site. This will include clearing the area and removing any obstructions. The contractor will also need to obtain permits and post them in a visible place on the construction site.
Permits
Dealing with paperwork isn’t exactly the most exciting part of planning a home addition, but it’s important to make sure that you or your contractor files the appropriate permits before starting work on your new project. Permits help ensure that construction is done properly and to code, so that your cozy new bedroom or inspiring detached artist studio is safe and sound for years to come.
The exact rules for what requires a permit will vary from city to city, but you can usually expect to need a permit for any kind of major renovation that increases the size of your home or changes its structure. This includes removing walls (both structural and non-structural), changing the location of plumbing or electrical fixtures, adding or modifying HVAC systems, and constructing additions.
Some smaller projects, such as installing a deck or patio, do not require a permit. Other types of permits, such as full permits for building a large shed or converting a garage into living space, may take longer to process.
Construction
Building home additions is complicated work that can be dangerous for non-professionals to do on their own. Most homeowners hire an architect to design the addition and a structural engineer to ensure the new addition is safe. Some projects will also require electrical and plumbing contractors to connect the new addition to existing utilities.
Purchasing construction materials, like wood and drywall, can add up. Additionally, you’ll likely need to buy tools and equipment. Other costs include architectural fees, permits and cleanup costs.
It’s important to prioritize your desires and consider your budget before committing to any contractor or project. Don’t be afraid to ask a home addition contractor about options that align with your goals and match your budget. This will help you avoid overspending and make the most of your investment. Enter your zip code to be connected with prescreened pros near you. Start by answering a few simple questions about your project. Then, receive quotes from up to 3 contractors.