Home Extensions
Home Extensions in Perth & Dundee
Maximise Your Living Space with Home Extensions in Perth, Scotland
Over the years, we've come to see that home extensions a much like adding a new chapter to a family's story. It's not just about increasing the value of your property; it's about shaping a space that truly feels like home.
If you've been thinking of a little more room or a change in your living space, but the thought of moving feels daunting, a home extension might be just what you need.
At DG Ritchie Joinery, we've been doing this work for a long time. We'll be with you every step of the way, from the initial paperwork to the final touches of the build. Serving the Perth and Dundee communities has taught us the importance of understanding each family's unique needs. Our goal has always been simple: to craft a space that suits you, in both its look and its use.
Why Move When You Can Extend?
Discover the benefits of expanding your current home over the hassles of relocating.
Relocating to a new home can be a daunting task. From the emotional attachment to your current home to the logistical challenges and costs associated with moving, it's a decision that requires careful consideration. But what if there was a way to gain that additional space or functionality you desire without leaving your cherished home behind?
Home Extensions: A Smart Alternative to Moving
Home extensions offer a practical solution for homeowners in Perth, Scotland, who wish to enhance their living space without the upheaval of moving. Here are some compelling reasons to consider extending:
1. Cost-Effective: Often, the cost of home extensions is significantly less than purchasing a larger property, especially when you factor in the expenses of stamp duty, estate agent fees, and moving costs.
2. Personalised Space: Home extensions allow you to design and create a space that's tailored to your specific needs and preferences, ensuring that every inch of the new area serves a purpose.
3. Increase Property Value: A well-executed home extensions can substantially boost the market value of your property, making it a sound investment for the future.
4. Stay in Your Beloved Neighbourhood: Extending means you don't have to leave behind your favourite local spots, neighbours, or the convenience of your current location.
5. Less Disruption: While any construction project comes with its set of challenges, extending your home is typically less disruptive than moving, especially if you have a trusted team handling the project.
In conclusion, if you love where you live but just need a bit more space or a fresh update, home extensions might be the perfect solution. With the expertise of a dedicated team, you can transform your current home into your dream space, all while reaping the benefits of a smart investment.
DG Ritchie Joinery: Perth's Trusted Home Extensions Specialists
From initial paperwork to the final build, our expert team ensures a seamless extension process tailored to your needs.
Established in 1983, DG Ritchie Joinery has carved a niche as one of Perth's leading home extensions specialists. With a legacy spanning nearly four decades, our reputation is built on a foundation of trust, quality, and unparalleled craftsmanship.
A Legacy of Excellence in Home Extensions
Our journey began with a simple mission: to transform homes in Perth and Dundee into spaces that resonate with the dreams and aspirations of their inhabitants. Over the years, we've expanded our services, but our core values remain unchanged. Here's what sets us apart:
1. Bespoke Solutions: Every home is unique, and so are its extension needs. We pride ourselves on offering customised home extensions solutions that reflect your personal style and functional requirements.
2. End-to-End Services: From navigating the complexities of planning permissions to coordinating with various trades involved in the project, we offer a comprehensive service. Whether it's groundwork, plumbing, electrical work, or glazing, our qualified and experienced team has got you covered.
3. Commitment to Quality: Our dedication to excellence is evident in every project we undertake. Using only the finest materials, we ensure that our extensions are not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and energy-efficient.
4. Building Relationships: More than just a service provider, we consider ourselves partners in your home transformation journey. Our approachable and friendly team is always at your service, ensuring that every phase of the project aligns with your vision.
5. Local Expertise: Being based in Perth, Scotland, we have an in-depth understanding of local architectural nuances, regulations, and preferences. This local expertise translates into extensions that are in harmony with their surroundings while standing out in their own right.
In essence, DG Ritchie Joinery is not just about building extensions; it's about extending dreams, creating spaces that echo with memories, and ensuring that every corner of your extended home tells a story. Entrust us with your vision, and let's co-create a space that you'll cherish for years to come.
Choosing the Perfect Extension for Your Home
Over the years at DG Ritchie Joinery, we've had the privilege to work on a variety of homes, each with its unique character and needs. Whether you're thinking of:
Storey extensions
Rear extensions
Front extensions
Conservatories or garden rooms
Other home renovations
And more, we've done it all.
But, every home is different. The type of extension that suits your neighbour might not be the right fit for you. It all depends on the structure of your home and the extent of the work involved.
For example, while adding a storey might be a dream for some, not every home is built to support that. It's always best to have a chat with us. We can explore what's feasible for your property.
And when it comes to navigating the maze of local council permissions, you're not alone. We've walked this path many times and are here to guide you. If you have questions or need advice, just give us a call. We're here to help.
Navigating Planning Permissions in Perth, Scotland
Embarking on a home extension project in Perth, Scotland requires more than just design and construction; it demands a thorough understanding of local council regulations and permissions. Without the right guidance, this can become a daunting task, often leading to delays and unforeseen challenges.
With DG Ritchie Joinery by your side, you're not alone in this journey. Leveraging our extensive experience in home extensions, we've mastered the intricacies of Perth's planning permissions. Our team is well-versed with the nuances of local regulations, ensuring that your home extension aligns perfectly with council requirements.
From initial consultations to submitting detailed plans, we'll handle every aspect of the permission process on your behalf. Our proactive approach ensures that potential roadblocks are identified and addressed early on, paving the way for a smooth and hassle-free home extension experience.
In essence, with DG Ritchie Joinery, you're not just getting a home extension; you're gaining a partner who stands with you at every step, ensuring that your dream extension becomes a reality in compliance with Perth's regulations.
The Value of Home Extensions: More Than Just Space
Through the years, we've observed that a home extension truly allows homeowners to imprint their essence onto their property. It's akin to crafting a bespoke home without the extensive costs, prolonged timelines, and challenges that come with building from the ground up. With a home extension, you have the freedom to shape it precisely to your liking.
Moreover, a home extension doesn't just offer additional space; it enhances the overall worth of your property. Whether you're contemplating a sale soon or somewhere down the line, a well-executed home extension can be a compelling draw for potential buyers.
DG Ritchie Joinery: 4 Decades of Excellence in Home Extensions
Since setting our foundation in 1983, we've been serving the communities of Angus, Dundee, Perth & Kinross, and Fife. The trust and respect we've garnered over these years speak volumes about our commitment to quality and service.
Our promise has always been straightforward: timely, dependable service without compromising on affordability. The hands that work on your projects are not just skilled; they're masters in their respective trades.
Our approach is holistic. From the foundational groundworks to the intricate electrical fittings, right down to the finishing touch of glazing, our seasoned team ensures every aspect is handled with precision. And if your vision includes specific interior designs, we're here to bring that to life as well.
Commitment to Quality: Our Home Extensions Promise
At DG Ritchie Joinery, we set the bar high for ourselves. It's not just about completing a project; it's about ensuring every detail aligns with our commitment to excellence. This dedication has cemented our reputation for delivering top-tier results.
Our choice of materials reflects our commitment to durability and strength. We don't cut corners, ensuring that every home extension stands the test of time. Moreover, we're mindful of the environment and your wallet, striving to make our extensions as energy-efficient as possible.
But beyond the craftsmanship, it's the heart of our team that truly sets us apart. We're more than just skilled professionals; we're a team that values genuine connections. Every customer is unique, and we cherish the bonds we form, aiming to foster relationships that last well beyond the project's completion.
Contact us today
Home Renovation FAQs
There are several types of home extensions that are possible for most types of residential properties. Some of the most common home extension work we carry out include:
- Single-Storey Extension - this involves extending the ground floor of a property to create additional living space. It can be used to create a larger kitchen, living room or dining area.
- Two-Storey Extension - extending both the ground and first floors of a property. It can provide additional living space on both levels, such as an additional bedroom or bathroom.
- Conservatories and orangeries – these are slightly different to one another but both provide additional living space that can be used as a sunroom, dining room or a room to relax in. These extensions are generally constructed with full or partial glass sides and tend to be added to the rear of a property
- Loft Conversion - involves converting the attic space of a property into additional living space to be used as an additional bedroom, office space or a playroom.
- Garage Conversion - involves converting the garage of a property into additional living space
- Basement Conversion - converting the basement of a property into additional living space such as as a home gym, cinema room or living area.
The cost of your UK home extension will vary significantly depending on a variety of factors, including the size and type of extension and the materials and finishes used. As a result, it is difficult to give an exact average cost.
However, as a rough guide, a basic single-storey extension in the UK could cost between £1,000 and £2,000 per square metre, while a two-storey extension could cost between £1,500 and £3,000 per square metre. These figures are just estimates and the final cost will vary depending on the specifics of the project.
We will always provide an accurate quote before any work is carried out so you can decide if a home extension is right for you.
The timeline of your home extension will of course change based on the amount of work being done and the size of extension being added.
As a rough estimate, a basic single-storey extension in the UK can take around 3-4 months to complete, while a larger or more complex two-storey extension may take up to 6-9 months. However, these timelines are just estimates and can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the project.
It is important to keep in mind that there are various stages involved in a home extension project, such as planning and design, obtaining necessary permits and approvals, foundation and building work, electrical and plumbing installation, and finishing and decoration work. Each of these stages will have a different duration.
In Scotland, you will not need to apply for planning permission if the proposed extension meets certain rules. This is called 'permitted development'.
The rules for permitted development depend on how many storeys (levels) your extension will have.
Planning permission will be needed if the proposed extension:
- Extends beyond 3 metres if it’s a single storey extension for a terraced house, or 4 metres if it’s non terraced.
- If the home extension is two storeys, your extension must have at least 10 metres between the extension and the boundaries of your grounds
- Is higher than the highest part of the roof of the existing house for two-storey extensions
- Is higher than 4 metres, including sloping roofs, for single-storey extensions
- Covers more ground area than your original house does
- Is located in a conservation area or national park
You can find out more information about necessary planning permission for home extensions via the Scottish government website.
To commence construction work, it is typically necessary to ensure compliance with building regulations. In Scotland, these are known as the “Scottish Building Standards”.
These regulations are established by Scottish Ministers to ensure that all construction work adheres to requirements on safety, energy efficiency, and sustainability.
You can find out more about building regulations for Scotland via the official Government website.
Yes. A building warrant is legal permission to carry out home extensions and building work. You could be fined if building work is carried out without a proper warrant.
We can give you expert advice on whether a warrant is needed for your home extension and we will be happy to walk you through the full application process.
Whether or not your home insurance will cover the cost of a home extension depends on the specific details of your policy. Generally, standard home insurance policies do not cover the cost of home extensions, as they are considered a home improvement project rather than an insurable event such as fire or theft.
If you are planning a home extension, it is recommended to contact your insurance provider and ask about any coverage options that may be available. Some insurance companies offer policies specifically for home renovation and construction projects, which may provide coverage for certain types of damage or liabilities related to the extension.
In many cases, it is possible to live in your home during home extension work, but it will depend on the scope and nature of the project. If the extension involves significant structural work, such as foundations, walls, or roof modifications, it may be necessary to temporarily relocate until the work is complete.
However, if the extension is more minor, such as a simple room addition or a garage conversion, you may be able to continue living in your home with minimal disruption.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to live in your home during the extension work will depend on your personal preference and circumstances, as well as the feasibility of doing so given the specific details of the project. We’ll always give our own recommendations before the work starts and outline the level of disruption we expect you to face so you can make an informed decision.
There are several ways to make your new home extension energy-efficient, such as:
- Proper insulation in the walls, roof, and floors
- Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors that use PVC and double glazing
- Energy-Efficient Lighting
- Renewable Energy Sources, such as solar panels or heat pumps
By incorporating these and other energy-efficient features into the design and construction of your home extension, you can help to reduce your energy consumption and carbon footprint, while also creating a more comfortable and healthy living space.
Whilst all our home extensions are designed with optimal energy efficiency in mind, please do speak to us about your energy efficiency requirements at the outset of your project so we can prepare properly.
A well-designed and well-executed extension that adds functional living space to the home, such as an extra bedroom, bathroom, or living area, will almost always increase the property value. This is especially true if the extension is in line with the style and quality of the existing property, and enhances the overall appearance and functionality of the home.
However, it's important to keep in mind that not all extensions will necessarily add value to the property, and in some cases, poor-quality work or an inappropriate design can actually detract from the value. Additionally, the current state of the property market and the demand for homes in the local area will also impact the value that an extension will add to the value of your home.
When planning a home extension, it's important to consider how your new space will fit with the existing style of your home. Some tips for ensuring that the extension blends in seamlessly with your home's architecture are:
- Work with an experienced architect or designer to help you develop a design that is both functional and in keeping with the style of your home.
- Use matching or complementary materials that complement the existing materials of your home to create a cohesive look.
- Using the same color palette or trim details to tie the new extension to the original design and structure of your home.
- Pay attention to the roofline so that it matches the existing roofline of the house as closely as possible
- Consider the scale and proportion and ensure it is in balance with your existing structure
We always aim to match our home extension design with the existing property and will be more than happy to take your recommendations and requirements onboard before work begins.
Your house extension project could benefit from off-site construction, particularly if the work involves cross-laminated timber (CLT), oak frame, structural insulated panels (SIPs), or timber frame.
Off-site construction methods involve the majority of the work being completed in a factory off-site, with components then delivered to the site for easy erection, helping to save time and cut costs.
