Home Extension Guide: CommissionIt's Complete Homeowner's Handbook
CommissionIt has released a comprehensive guide for homeowners considering extensions, focusing on common pitfalls such as vague briefs and inadequate supplier choices. Many challenges emerge prior to construction, often due to early engagement with builders. The guide recommends drafting a thorough brief that outlines objectives, budget, timeline, and essential features. It emphasizes the complexity of managing an extension, which may require up to 22 specialists, and underscores the importance of professional procurement. Suggestions include acquiring three comparable quotes, performing due diligence on contractors, and understanding the difference between planning permission and Building Control. Additionally, it addresses change management, written contracts, and dispute resolution. CommissionIt also provides AI-assisted project planning, structured briefs, and a 15-step checklist with FAQs to enhance planning and support for better results.
Key facts
- Home extension problems usually start before the builder arrives, often due to unclear briefs and poor supplier selection.
- The biggest mistake is starting without a detailed brief covering goals, layout, budget, timeline, and success criteria.
- A home extension can involve up to 22 different specialists including architect, structural engineer, and various trades.
- CommissionIt helps homeowners create structured project briefs before approaching suppliers.
- Three comparable quotes are recommended, but only if each supplier prices the same brief.
- Due diligence should include checking legal business name, Companies House, insurance, references, and contract details.
- Planning permission and Building Control are separate; Building Control ensures compliance with building regulations.
- All changes during the project should be documented in writing including cost and time impact.
- CommissionIt offers AI-supported planning, brief creation, supplier sourcing, and independent expert guidance.
- The guide includes a 15-step checklist and FAQs on quotes, architects, structural engineers, and builder selection.
Entities
Institutions
- CommissionIt
- CommissionIt.com
- CommissionIt.co.uk
- Companies House