Deciding whether or not to build a house extension is a matter of personal choice and it will depend on many things. If you are wondering whether to go ahead and do it, here are some of the things to consider to help you decide if you want to extend or if moving house might be a better option…

What do you Need the Extension for?

Firstly, consider what you need the extension for. There are many reasons why people choose to extend their property, and you need to ensure that it is something that will give you what you need. For example, if you need extra bedrooms, you might want to extend into the loft, or build a two-storey extension. It may be that you need more living space, or a home office.

What is Your Budget?

Before you decide to get an extension, you need to work out what you can afford, and what the project is likely to cost. Budgeting and planning well will ensure that it goes smoothly and also will stop you from having financial difficulties if it goes over budget.

Is it something you can get Planning Permission for?

Something else to consider is planning permission. You need to have permission to build an extension, although it sometimes falls under permitted development. Working with a good local architect like this residential architects Chelsea based company rbddesign.com/architects-design/residential-architecture-london/architects-chelsea/ is important as they will have a good knowledge of planning laws in your area.

Is an orangery the right kind of extension?

If you want more downstairs space, an orangery is one option alongside a traditional extension, a conservatory or a porch. It sits halfway between a single-storey extension and a conservatory, usually built with more brick than glass. Orangeries were first added to the grand homes of the very wealthy, who used them to grow exotic plants and fruit such as oranges, and they have become increasingly popular in recent years.

Check first whether you need planning permission. An orangery or conservatory can often be built under permitted development rights, provided it stays under 4 metres high (3 metres near a boundary), covers no more than half the garden and uses materials in keeping with the house. A timber-framed home, for example, might suit an oak-framed orangery. If permission is needed, allow time for the decision before building starts.

Think too about how you will use the room and whether you will rearrange the rest of the ground floor to make the most of it. That will help you decide which option suits your home best and how much space you really need.

Weighing the costs of moving against extending

Selling can make financial sense for some families, but moving brings costs of its own, including solicitors, estate agents, surveyors and removals. Selling also takes preparation. Declutter, refresh the walls with paint, repair broken tiles in the kitchen or bathroom and tidy the garden and any outbuildings, so buyers think positively about the property.

Staying put means keeping a much loved home, neighbours you know and a location close to work and schools. If lack of space is the main reason for moving, an extension may solve it, provided the plot is big enough to build at the back or side. Where there is no room to extend outwards, converting the loft into an extra room is another option.

Investing in your home in this way can add value to the property. Make sure you get proper planning permission and have plans drawn up by a recommended architect before any work begins.