Conservatories are a great way to add extra living space. However, it’s also important to consider the planning requirements for your extension. Depending on your location, your local council will have different rules and regulations. If you’re unsure of what’s required, ask for advice from your council’s building control officer.
One of the most useful things you can do in your new conservatory is add a bathroom. Although adding an extra toilet isn’t an uncommon request, it may require more than just a bit of work. Getting Building Control approval for a new bathroom will include the usual suspects: proper ventilation, plumbing and electricity.
The question is, which is the best way to go about it? Some people opt for a full-blown extension while others choose to reposition the interior of the house and leave some open space to use for other purposes. It’s a lot easier to get Planning Regs approval for a new conservatory, whereas a full renovation could be a more complicated undertaking.
The best way to find out if you can incorporate a toilet into your conservatory is to speak to your local planning authority. It’s also worth checking the government’s own website for a comprehensive list of criteria. The ‘best’ thing to do is to apply for permission well in advance of completing the build. Failure to secure the required approval could lead to costly legal action.
The most important point to remember is that you should not make the mistake of thinking that a conservatory is a quick and easy DIY project. As with any extension, you will need to take into account a range of considerations including the size of the new room, its location and the materials you’ll need to buy.
Luckily, there are a number of ways to ensure you get the most for your money. A simple uPVC lean-to design can be bought for around PS6,000, while top quality timber models cost a lot more. This makes it all the more important to shop around and check the prices.
As well as the most efficient use of space, you should also consider the best type of glass to use for your glass room. Using laminated glass, for example, is a smart choice as it can protect your room from falling debris. You can also use solar-tinted glass, which reflects the sun’s rays, keeping the room cooler in the summer and brighter in the winter.
It’s also worth checking your local council’s website to see if you can get planning permission for the ‘tiniest’ thing you’ve ever thought of doing. For instance, a side return extension will let you use your garden for something other than grass and will not impinge on the rest of your property. This could prove to be the most worthwhile splurge you’ll ever make!
A good quality conservatory can help you add extra living space and improve the value of your home. It’s a worthwhile investment, however, it’s important to plan your extension properly so that you’ll get the most for your money. The Housebuilders’ Bible can be a valuable tool for this task. This book covers all the major issues, from material costs to technical specifications.
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