Why Now is the Smartest Time to Plan Your Home Extension

Neil Heyes
Jun 20
3 min read

Why Now is the Smartest Time to Plan Your Home Extension

If you're thinking about adding more space to your home—whether it's a loft conversion, a single storey rear extension, or a double storey side return—there’s never been a more important time to take the first step: getting your plans drawn up.

While many homeowners are holding back, waiting for building costs to drop or interest rates to shift, the reality is this: delaying your planning could end up costing you more.

Rising Material Costs: What’s Driving the Increase?

The construction industry is feeling the pressure of rising material costs, particularly those linked to oil-based products. With ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and global oil prices becoming increasingly volatile, materials such as plastics, rubbers, sealants, membranes, insulation, adhesives and even certain types of roofing are becoming more expensive to produce.

In short: the longer you wait, the more you may pay.

And it's not just about materials. Labour shortages, increased fuel costs for transport, and supply chain disruptions are also contributing to rising construction costs across the UK.

Why Planning Ahead Makes Financial Sense

Even if you’re not ready to build yet, having your architectural drawings completed now allows you to:

Get a realistic quote from builders while costs are still manageable
Secure planning permission or certify permitted development rights
Be ready to build at short notice, avoiding delays down the line

By the time you get your extension underway, you could already have lost thousands simply by waiting. Acting now gives you the flexibility to lock in prices, apply for permission, and make informed decisions at your own pace.

Planning Permission vs. Permitted Development

Not all extensions need full planning permission. Many loft conversions and single storey rear extensions can be built under permitted development rights, provided they meet certain criteria.

However, it’s important to note:

Your local authority may have restrictions depending on your area
Having a full set of professional architectural drawings supports a lawful development certificate, giving peace of mind
The rules for double storey extensions and side extensions are stricter and may require planning permission

That’s why speaking with experts, like our team at Plans4Extensions—ensures your extension is designed correctly, affordably, and with approval in mind.

Why Choose Plans4Extensions?

We specialise in architectural plans for home extensions, loft conversions, internal reconfigurations and more. Whether you're just exploring your options or ready to start building, our friendly team is here to help you:

Understand what’s possible under current UK planning regulations
Create compliant, build-ready drawings at a fixed price
Avoid delays and hidden costs often associated with design revisions or resubmissions

We make it easy to get started with a free consultation, followed by a site survey and custom plans, ready for your builder, engineer, or planning authority.

Get Ahead. Save Money. Expand Smart.

Delaying your extension might seem like the cautious thing to do—but in today’s climate, it's likely to cost you more in the long run. From rising material costs to potential planning delays, the smart move is to get your architectural drawings and permissions sorted now.

If you’re considering a loft conversion, kitchen extension, or even a full home remodel, let’s talk. At Plans4Extensions, we help homeowners bring their ideas to life, with clear pricing, fast turnaround, and plans that are designed to build from.