If you plan to extend or renovate your London property next year, then now is the time to start planning. While you will want to wait until the better weather of spring or summer to start construction, there is a lot that needs to be in place first and November is a great time to think about exactly what you want to achieve. Early planning allows you to save money on materials, secure your spot with trusted contractors, and put yourself in the best possible position for a successful build.
Planning Permission
Certain renovations will require planning permission from your local council. Obtaining planning permission can take up to 13 weeks from submitting an application, which means that if you applied in November, it could be February before you receive approval.
If you are seriously considering a major construction project such as a basement conversion or a two-storey extension that would require planning permission, the earlier you can secure permission from the council, the earlier you can start moving forwards with the project.
Contractor availability
In-demand contractors fill their schedules quickly many months in advance. To make sure that you have the opportunity to work with your preferred professionals for a project, you need to book them in months before the project is due to commence.
Budget preparation
Understanding the budget implications for your renovation is key to the success of any project. Early planning enables you to obtain several quotes from potential construction firms and make informed decisions about the scope of the project. It also allows you some time to build up a contingency fund of around 15% of the value of the project to cover any unforeseen costs.
More time to choose materials and fittings
Selecting the right materials and fittings for your project is crucial to your enjoyment of the space. Your architect or contractors should be able to help with choosing materials from a functional perspective, but it is up to you (or your interior designer) to decide whether you might want tile or wooden flooring in your new kitchen, the tile designs for your new bathroom, or the materials and styles of the taps for your new bath.
If you have months to ponder your choices, you are more likely to come across inspiration that helps you decide on exactly the right look for your new extension or basement conversion. Moreover, it should help you avoid any situations where items are temporarily out-of-stock as you have given yourself the luxury of time.
Seasonal discounts and incentives
Many suppliers and contractors offer end-of-year discounts to clear out excess stock or book up their calendar for the following year. Autumn and winter tend to be slower months for contractors and so they will often be more responsive and may offer you discounts if your project will fill a gap in their diary.
Black Friday discounts are also not just for high street shops, with many suppliers offering significant discounts on materials over the Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend. So, whether you are after a new range cooker or fridge-freezer for your new kitchen extension, or floor tiles and a roll-top bath for your new bathroom, November may be the best time to buy if you already know what you want.
Ready for spring or summer construction
Planning your renovation to begin construction in spring or summer, means you can take advantage of the drier, warmer weather and extended hours of daylight. Paint, plaster and concrete will all dry faster and make for a smoother and more efficient renovation process. If you start to plan in November, the project will be more likely to be completed on time and on budget come spring or summer.
If you are looking to build an extension, basement conversion, or refurbish an entire London property in 2026 then contact Good London Builders today to start the process early.
