Key Factors That Affect the Cost Home Extension Cost NZ
Creating a home extension can be an ideal way to increase living space, improve your property’s value or even create additional rooms for a growing family. However, before you start planning, it’s crucial to understand how costs will work out and whether your plans will be affordable for your budget.
Home Extension Cost NZ can vary significantly depending on the size and scope of your project. For example, a small single-story extension will typically cost less than a two-story extension. A few other key factors can also impact the cost of extending your home.
Design & Planning
The first step in any Home Extension Cost NZ is to get professional help with the design. This will ensure that your new space is both functional and looks great. Choosing an architect or building designer who can help you achieve your vision is important.
Architectural drawings are a critical part of the design process as they will guide builders and provide a clear indication of the scope and cost of your project. These can be either drawn up by a specialized architectural technician or commissioned by the builder you’re working with. These drawings will include floor plans, sections, and elevations that are critical for the construction of your home extension.
Consider the Grounds & Environment
The soil and ground conditions of your property are other factors that can affect the cost of your home extension. A survey can help identify issues such as groundwater or rock subsidence and determine the best construction methods for your area. A geotechnical survey may also be required for sites that are difficult to access or where a large amount of heavy machinery and waste will be used during construction.
During the construction phase, a builder must have access to the site and be able to easily bring in materials, machinery, and waste skips. If a site is difficult to access, additional labor costs will be associated with removing trees and other barriers.
Council & other related costs
The council will often charge a fee for resource consent, inspections, and building applications. These can run well into the thousands of dollars, so checking the fees and charges before starting your home extension project is essential.
Demolition & Dismantling
If you plan to remove or modify an existing wall to fit an extension, there will likely be a significant demolition and disposal cost. The costs involved will differ for every case and depend on how large your house is, where the wall is located, and if it’s load-bearing or not.
Contractors & Tradespeople
There are many tradespeople involved in house renovation and home extension. These will range from carpenters and plasterboard experts to electricians, plumbers, and ceramic tilers.
You’ll also need to factor in the cost of hiring any specialist contractors you need for your project. If necessary, this will include a surveyor for a topographical survey and an engineer for structural engineering, if required.