Increasing number of people building and remodelling their homes

The number of people improving their homes has risen in recent years, with many people feeling the need to make their space betterin light of the ongoing lockdown. In the UK new research shows that the number of homeowners undertaking renovations to their property has risen by 50% since 2020.

It is important for homeowners to make sure they are aware of any local authority requirements assocaited wtih any changes, such as obtaining planning permission or making alterations to building regulations. If you are curious to find out more about why there’s an increase in home renovation and how you go about making alternations to your own home, then here is all the information you need.

Why are people trying to improve their homes?

There has been an increase in people who want to create more space, so they try to extend their existing property. This is also due to a rise in demand for housing; with many people being locked out from buying a home, there’s now a big drive for renters and those living with family members to find other ways of improving their quality of life by making improvements themselves.
The increase in home renovations has been linked with family members trying different ways of improving their quality of life by improving themselves and not having confidence they can rely on others for support during an uncertain time period.
Prominent lifestyle bloggers have also been credited with influencing more people than ever before to makeover their homes and gardens after demonstrating how relatively inexpensive it is to undertake certain projects yourself - even if you don't consider yourself particularly DIY savvy.

Things Homeowners Should Know About Renovations:

Opt for a space survey: It is better to do a space survey from professionals in some cases. Their services can help you to analyze the layout of your home and identify opportunities for improvement, such as reducing clutter or making use of underused spaces. It will also help you get different ideas on improving your home and what can be done.
Plan the budget: It is important to plan your spending from the start so that you don’t go over budget, which means that you have a more accurate idea of how much money will be needed for all aspects of renovation work on your property. If it is difficult to set an exact figure at first, estimate as best you can. You may find some items are cheaper than others or even free if they fall outside planning permission requirements, such as minor improvements inside living space without changing any external features like installing new cupboard doors on kitchen units.
Garden Renovations: If you’re looking to increase access around your house with new pathways or improve the garden by adding decking or plants, it is important that any changes do not affect neighboring properties - this could lead to complaints being made against you.
Planning permission depending on the type of renovation: Planning permission may be required when adding an extension to a property if you are changing the use of the building or altering any structure on your land. On the other hand, suppose you’re planning a renovation that doesn't require approval from us, such as renovating for disability access. In that case, we advise completing a self-assessable work package so that you can provide evidence in the future.

What can you do to improve your home during a lockdown?

There are various things that you can do around your home if it needs improvement:

Add an extension: Adding an extension is a great way to increase the size of your property without the need to move. Check out Garden Rooms for the services on offer if you're looking at extending your home and increase the size of your property creatively.
Eco-friendly upgrades: This includes installing solar panels, insulation or eco roofing if you are looking to increase the green credentials of your home while reducing carbon emissions and energy bills.
Renovations for disability access: If there is an area around your house that can be made more accessible, then this could increase the value of your property. For example, adding a ramp will provide easy access for people with wheelchairs or mobility scooters to get through doorways.
Workplace improvements: One way homeowners have improved their homes during lockdown is by upgrading their office space - whether they've been running a business from home or working as part of a remote team.
Replace windows: Old or draughty windows can increase energy bills and the risk of condensation - compare quotes on different window types to find out how you could start saving now.
Replace doors with windows: If you want fresh air flowing through your home, replacing some of the existing doors with windows is a quick and cost-effective solution.
Add insulation or draught-proofing: It can be difficult to keep warm in winter during lockdown - you could try installing additional insulation or draught-proofing around any openings such as doorways, which helps trap heat inside and prevents it from escaping outwards into cold weather.
Rearrange rooms: Rearranging your living spaces during lockdown can increase the amount of light and air that you have in your home, as well as helping to retain heat. It will also help increase your levels of happiness.
Build new structures like porches or garages (or carports): Many people have built garages, car ports, and porches during the lockdown. This is an easy way to increase living space and storage space and save money on utilities.
Create outdoor spaces such as gardens: Outdoor space is hugely important. A garden, even a small one, will serve your mental health, increase your happiness and help you get in touch with nature.

Conclusion:

It is evident that people want to live in a nice environment while they spend lockdowns at home. And, if you feel that your current living space is not big enough for you and your family, then there are many ways in which you can increase it. But, of course, all of these improvements should be done with caution. We live in hope that the lockdown may end soon!