Surrey Lofts Blog

Welcome to a new year. Our first Blog talked about what was happening at the new Surrey Lofts. I’m pleased to report that business remains strong, and demand for new work reached record levels in December.

Turning to the next twelve months, I’m sure many of us have projects under consideration.

If loft conversion for added space is on your list, here are ten things you will want to think about. These will help you get a good contractor and a great end result.

1. WHAT DO YOU WANT?

• Make sure you know what you want the new space for. An extra bedroom with ensuite bathroom? An office? Perhaps kitchen facilities? A clear decision up front will help you, and the contractor you choose, achieve the best results.

2. FIND A CONTRACTOR YOU CAN COLLABORATE WITH

• Ensure you are comfortable with working with your contractor and are confident you will be able to resolve issues quickly and amicably. Small issues must not get in the way of a great end result. So, look for a contractor you can talk to and work with.

3. IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT THE LOWEST BID

Of course, cost is important. However, as you think about the financial aspects, also consider:

• The contractor’s financial strength. You want to be confident the contractor can see the job through.
• Previous projects the contractor has successfully delivered.
• The payment schedule the contractor is looking for. There should be funds held back until the project is finished.
• The extra value a great conversion is likely to bring to your property. Most established Estate Agents will be happy to give a pre and post conversion evaluation of your property.

4. WHILE WE ARE ON FINANCES, MAKE SURE THE CONTRACTOR’S QUOTE IS TOTALLY TRANSPARENT

Find a contractor who makes it totally clear what the quote does and does not cover. Some key points:

• Are you looking for a Design and Build deal – or simply someone to execute a plan an architect has already drawn up? There are advantages and disadvantages to consider here.
• If you work with an architect, you may get some interesting styling suggestions. However, many people find that an architect does not have the construction experience to deliver planning within budget. They end up buying a plan they cannot afford!
• On the other hand, if you use a good contractor for Design and Build, they will bring practical knowledge from previous successful conversions. The right contractor will also work with you on styling detail for the WOW factosr you are seeking. You may well be able to get everything you want without paying hefty separate architect fees.
• Is all electrical and plumbing included and specified?
• Is decorating or floor covering installation included?
• Beware contractors who do not include a “tin hat” with any scaffolding to avoid water damage.
• In all events, contractors should be transparent so that their quotes can be accurately compared.

5. MAKE SURE YOUR CONTRACTOR HAS THE RIGHT PROFESSIONAL NETWORK TO ENSURE A GREAT END RESULT

• A great end result requires more than design and construction. A good contractor should be plugged into specialists in Planning requirements, Party Wall agreements, suppliers of Bathroom and Kitchen equipment, Floor Covering suppliers, Window suppliers including Velux, providers of Fire Safety and Air Ventilation systems. If a contractor doesn’t have an established network, you might want to think again!

6. MAKE SURE TO GO OUT AND VISIT OTHER CONVERSIONS THE CONTRACTOR HAS COMPLETED

• If you can meet and chat with owners or occupiers about their experience, so much the better.

7. LOOK FOR A CONTRACTOR WHO CAN ANSWER THE QUESTION “HOW WILL THE CONVERSION IMPROVE MY HOME OVERALL?”

• If your contractor pays attention to the detail, your conversion will add style to the whole house. New windows correctly sighted can add light to the floors below. The right lighting can create a WOW factor in the new staircase. Careful detailing in the plasterwork can help integrate the conversion into the rest of your home.
• Talk to your contractor up-front and ensure he is tuned in to these opportunities.
• As the project progresses you may see additional opportunities to improve the end result. A built-in cupboard or extra storage facilities. Your contractor should be able to execute these. Remember extra work will impact cost and timings, and your contractor should be clear on this.

8. YOU NEED A PROJECT CHECK SCHEDULE FROM YOUR CONTRACTOR

• Up front, your contractor should provide a Project Check schedule. It should cover the timings of all aspects of the pre-planning, the progress of work, the target completion date, and the schedule of payments. Your contractor should provide weekly updates on the schedule. If you contractor doesn’t have a standard procedure on this, think again.
• Both you and your contractor should be realistic about target timings. Unforeseen issues can arise. Really bad weather, or shortage of materials can cause delays. If this happens, you can sensibly manage these with your contractor using the Schedule. Don’t rush things to try and catch up as this may spoil the end result.

9. KEEP YOUR NEIGHBOURS POSTED.

• Let your neighbours know your Project Schedule. This helps avoid surprises when the scaffolding arrives, deliveries are made and workers arrive.

10. ENJOY THE SPACE

You may have read all of the above and thought- “Wow, a lot of things to do!”

A good contractor will manage these things for you, keep you posted on progress and discuss any issues you need to be involved in.

Conversion works will cause some disruption in your home. A good contractor will work with his team to minimise these.

The result is worth the effort. You will improve your lifestyle and the value of your home without the cost and aggravation of moving.

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This is the second of a series of Blogs on home extensions and new Surrey Lofts, by Winning with Words*. If you have had a conversion by Surrey Lofts, and would be willing to contribute to a blog, please contact sarah@surreylofts.co.uk

Look out for the next Blog this series- “How I have benefitted from my new space.”

Interested in Winning with Words*to write Blogs for you? Contact stevemarkwell1l@gmail.com