Hampstead Renovations

How much does a house extension cost in London?

single-storey rear extensions in London typically cost £40,000-£80,000 for a standard 20m² extension. two-storey extensions range from £70,000-£150,000 . Costs vary based on:

• Budget spec: £2,000-£2,400 per m²
• Mid-range: £2,400-£3,000 per m²
• High-end: £3,000-£3,500+ per m²

Factors affecting cost include size, materials, finishes, structural complexity, and location within London.

How long does a typical renovation take?

Timeline varies significantly by project type:

• Kitchen renovation: 2-4 weeks
• Bathroom renovation: 1-3 weeks
• single-storey extension: 3-4 months
• two-storey extension: 4-6 months
• Loft conversion: 6-8 weeks
• Basement conversion: 4-6 months
• Full house renovation: 3-6 months

Add 2-3 months for planning, design, and approvals before work begins.

Can I stay in my home during renovation?

Yes , for most projects. Kitchen and bathroom renovations can be managed with temporary facilities. Extensions and loft conversions typically allow occupation with some disruption. Full house renovations may require temporary relocation for major works. We minimise disruption through:

• Careful planning and phasing of work
• Clean, tidy working practices
• Dust containment measures
• Clear communication about noisy/disruptive activities

Do you provide design services or do I need an architect?

We offer complete design services and work with experienced architects:

• Simple projects: Our in-house team handles design
• Complex work: We collabourate with qualified architects
• Planning applications: We manage the entire process
• Building Regulations: Full compliance and certification

We can recommend architects or work with your chosen designer.

Do I need planning permission for a loft conversion?

Most loft conversions fall under Permitted Development Rights and don't require planning permission if they meet these criteria:

• Volume increase within allowed limits (40m³ for terraced houses, 50m³ for detached/semi-detached)
• No extension beyond existing roof slope facing a highway
• Materials similar to existing house
• No balconies or verandas
• Eaves height not increased by more than permitted

Planning required for: Listed buildings, conservation areas, flats, or if Permitted Development Rights removed.

What is a Party Wall Agreement and do I need one?

A Party Wall Agreement is required under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 when building work affects shared walls or boundaries. You need one for:

• Work on existing party walls (shared between properties)
• Building new walls on property boundaries
• Excavations within 3 metres of neighbours' structures (going deeper than their foundations)
• Excavations within 6 metres (cutting within 45° line from foundations)

Notice periods: 2 months for party structure work, 1 month for excavations/new boundary walls.

How long does planning permission take?

Standard planning applications take 8 weeks for decision. Building Regulations approval takes 4-6 weeks . Allow longer for:

• Conservation areas (may need design review)
• Listed buildings (additional consent required)
• Complex applications (may need amendments)

We manage all applications and handle any queries from planning officers.

What are the most cost-effective ways to add value to my home?

Best ROI projects in London:

• Loft conversion: 60-70% return, adds £30k-£60k value
• Kitchen renovation: 50-80% return
• Bathroom upgrades: 60-70% return
• single-storey extension: 70-90% return
• Additional bedroom: Adds 10-15% to property value
• Garage conversion: 50-100% return (£20k-£50k value add)

Focus on: Quality kitchens/bathrooms, maximising natural light, good storage, energy efficiency.

How do I get an accurate quote?

Our quotation process:

1. Free consultation: Initial discussion of your project
2. Site visit: We assess your property and requirements
3. Detailed brief: Understanding your vision and budget
4. Itemized quotation: Complete breakdown of all costs
5. Revisions: Adjustments as needed
6. Fixed-price contract: Agreed price with payment schedule

We provide transparent pricing with no hidden costs.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, we offer flexible payment schedules:

• Deposit: Typically 10-20% on contract signing
• Stage payments: Linked to project milestones
• Final payment: On satisfactory completion

We never ask for full payment upfront and payments are always linked to completed work.

What guarantees do you provide?

Comprehensive guarantees on all work:

• Workmanship guarantee: 2-10 years depending on work type
• Materials warranties: Manufacturer warranties passed to you
• Structural work: 10-year guarantees for major alterations
• Insurance-backed warranties: Available for larger projects
• Building Regulations: Full compliance certificates

What areas of London do you cover?

We cover all North West London including:

• Camden, Westminster, Islington
• Hampstead, Hampstead Heath, Belsize Park, Swiss Cottage, St John's Wood
• Kilburn, West Hampstead, Kentish Town
• Primrose Hill, Golders Green, Hendon
• All NW1-NW11 postcodes

We also serve neighbouring boroughs. Contact us to confirm coverage for your area.

Are you insured and accredited?

Yes , we maintain comprehensive credentials:

• Public liability insurance (£10 million)
• Professional indemnity insurance
• FENSA registered (windows/doors)
• Building Regulations approved contractors
• Qualified tradespeople (Gas Safe, NICEIC electricians, etc.)
• Health & Safety certifications