Keep the neighbours happy during an extension.

Why is Hiring a Local Builder with Local Knowledge the best way for a successful home extension? When looking at doing an extension on your home, be that adding a new bedroom, expanding your kitchen, or creating a home office, choosing the right builder is crucial. One of the key factors when looking at options is whether to hire a local builder or a larger, national firm. While both options come with their own merits, there are several reasons why hiring a local builder with strong ties to your community is often the better choice. Understanding Local Planning Permission and Regulations One of the first hurdles you’ll encounter when planning for an extension is local planning permission and building regulations. Different councils have varying rules on what’s permissible in terms of design, size, and placement of home extensions. Some times its not even about rules. We have seen situations where an application in York should technically be acceptable but the home owner was advised to change an aspect. We know most of these challenges from experience, sometimes painful experience! A builder from outside the area might not be familiar with these specific requirements and hurdles, leading to potential delays, costs or even the rejection of your application. Building regs is another similar situation. While it should be black and white, experience says otherwise! Familiarity with Local Architecture and Style Every area has its own distinct style, and it’s important that any extension you build blends harmoniously with the existing architecture of your home and its surroundings. A local builder, who has likely worked on homes similar to yours, will understand these architectural nuances. For example, if you live in a Victorian terrace in the middle of York, a builder with local experience will know how to create an extension that complements the framework whilst meeting modern building standards. They can also provide insight into challenges which need to be overcome. Reliable Local Suppliers and Tradespeople Another advantage of hiring a local builder is their established relationships with local suppliers and subcontractors. Most building projects, especially extensions, require a wide range of materials and skilled workers and some of them will be contractors A builder who operates locally is likely to have strong connections with reliable suppliers, ensuring that high-quality materials arrive on time and at competitive prices. In contrast, builders from further afield may have to source materials from unfamiliar suppliers, potentially resulting in delays or higher costs. Additionally, local builders often have preferred tradespeople they work with regularly. These trusted connections help ensure that each aspect of your extension is handled by someone with a proven track record. This collaborative relationship can lead to better communication, fewer mistakes, and a better final build. Faster Response Times and Greater Accountability Hiring a local builder means that they are never too far away, which can be a real advantage when it comes to scheduling meetings, addressing issues, or making decisions quickly. For instance, if unexpected problems arise during construction—whether it’s a structural issue or a supply chain delay—a local builder can visit the site in a matter of hours rather than days. This proximity also often results in better communication. You’re likely to have more face-to-face contact with a local builder, which can be reassuring and lead to a smoother project. If issues do arise, it’s easier to resolve them when your builder is just around the corner, as opposed to working with someone based miles away who might be juggling multiple distant projects. Moreover, because local builders rely on word-of-mouth recommendations and maintaining a good reputation in the community, they have a vested interest in delivering a high-quality job. They are often more motivated to go the extra mile to ensure that their clients are satisfied. A large, national company may not feel the same level of personal accountability, especially if their reputation isn’t tied to a specific area. Supporting the Local Economy Hiring a local builder isn’t just good for your project—it’s also beneficial for your community. By choosing a builder who lives and works in your area, you’re supporting local businesses and helping to keep money circulating within the local economy. This can have a positive ripple effect, as local builders often source materials and services from other nearby businesses. When you hire a local tradesperson, they’re likely to reinvest their earnings in your area, whether by shopping at local stores, dining at local restaurants, or hiring local services. This not only strengthens your community but also contributes to its long-term vitality and sustainability. The Local Advantage When planning an extension for your home, hiring a builder with local knowledge offers numerous advantages. From a deep understanding of local planning regulations to familiarity with the architectural style of your areas, working with someone who knows the area can lead to a smoother, faster, and more cost-effective project. Their connections with local suppliers and tradespeople, combined with their understanding of regional weather patterns and materials, ensure that your extension is built to the highest standard. On top of that, supporting a local business can contribute to the well-being of your community as a whole. In the end, the decision to go local could be the key to ensuring that your extension is a successful, stress-free addition to your home. AG Developments and Construction are proud to be a local builder and we hope to be able to help you soon!

When you're planning to build onto your home, it's an exciting time that promises to improve your space and probably increase the value of your property. However, in among the planning, the budgeting, and the dreaming of the finished result, there's an important administrative step you shouldn't overlook: informing your home insurance company about the upcoming changes. The Importance of Transparency Your home insurance policy was calculated based on the condition and specifications of your property at the time you took it out. Extensions, changes and loft conversions can significantly alter these parameters by increasing the value of your home, changing its structure and adding rooms. Failure to notify your insurer might lead to your policy becoming void or claims being rejected in the future. Risk Assessment Insurance is all about risk, and building projects introduce new variables into the equation. From structural alterations that might affect the building's integrity to extensions that increase its footprint and rebuild cost, insurers need to reassess the risk level of the insured asset. Construction work also brings additional hazards, such as the increased likelihood of theft or accidental damage, which insurers need to account for. Temporary Changes in Coverage Depending on the scale of your renovation or extension, your insurance provider might need to adjust your coverage temporarily. This could involve extending your policy to include cover for building materials, and even the work itself against damage or theft. In some cases, if you're leaving the property while work is carried out, you might need unoccupied property insurance to ensure continuous coverage. Legal and Liability Considerations Significant renovations might also require you to update your liability coverage. If the project involves construction professionals and workers being on your property, you'll want to be protected against potential claims should someone get injured while on your premises. Moreover, if the renovations impact your neighbours or their property, it's vital to have your liability coverage assessed. Communicating with Your Insurer When informing your insurer, be prepared to share detailed plans of your home extension, including the nature of the work (for example kitchen extension, removal of wall, steel work or loft conversion), the expected duration, and the estimated cost. This information will help them understand the scope of the project and adjust your policy accordingly. In some cases, insurers might restrict coverage or even temporarily suspend certain protections. In our experience the houses in York area are regularly being extended so insurance doesn't pose many challenges. What Happens if You Don't Inform Them? its tempting to not say anything. However, failing to notify your insurer about building work can have significant repercussions. Should you need to make a claim during or after the renovation process, you might find that your insurer refuses to pay out, arguing that the risk was not accurately represented. This could leave you facing substantial financial loss, far outweighing any savings from not updating your policy. Adding an extension to you home or converting your loft is an exciting venture, but it's essential to keep your home insurance provider in the loop. Not only does this ensure that your coverage remains valid, but it also protects you against unforeseen costs and complications. In the dynamic landscape of homeownership and property value, being proactive about your insurance coverage is a wise strategy for peace of mind and financial security. The key takeaway is clear: Before embarking on any significant project, reach out to your home insurance company. This simple step can save you a world of hassle, securing your investment and safeguarding your home against the unexpected.