Going Up: adding a second storey to your home

It's an inarguable fact: going up is a hassle. Any addition that requires extra building around your house is invariably inconvenient, but putting up a full second storey can possibly be the worst renovation to negotiate, especially if you are planning to stay on in the house during the process. Even if you have a workable strategy in mind, there are still a number of factors you need to consider.

Choices of method:

There are at least four ways to expand a home vertically. You can remove the roof and build the new level from scratch with a new roof. Or you can lift the roof as a temporary measure, and replace it once the building is completed. An easier method is sometimes just expanding across another structure such as a garage or a porch. Then there's the loft expansion project whereby you don't need to remove the roof, but rather build into it.

Design:

Whatever building you're undertaking you need a good design as the first step. A professional architect or building draughtsman who is registered and from a reputable organisation is imperative. Make sure you get reliable recommendations before you select your professional. You would need to ask to see previous portfolio projects and customer reviews. In South Africa , two primary building bodies exist: the Master Builders Association South Africa (MBSA) and National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC).

Is the design structurally possible?

Before your build starts on your second storey, it's crucial that you assess the strength and durability of your house's ability to withstand both the building process and the extra pressure of a second storey.

Questions to ask include:

• Is it structurally sound, particularly the foundations and ground capacity?
• Can a stairway be practically added, and where best for this?
• Will you need a structural engineer's assessment before you begin building?

Having a plan in focus:

You should have a good plan in mind before you begin. How are you going to use the extra space you are creating? This will help you determine what kind of alteration is the best choice, and exactly how much space you will need. This is where your professional advisor will be able to help you make the best choices.

Get the legalities right:

By law, any plans and designs for building and renovation projects must be approved by the relevant local authorities. You will have to find out what Planning Permissions are needed and that your vision will comply with the relevant regulations. These are aspects with which your professional building designer can assist.

Avoid unexpected costs, do due diligence:

Plan for unexpected costs. There are always things that go wrong when undertaking an extensive renovation like building a second storey. You may have to rewire, re-plumb or update services. Your old roof - if you're thinking of reusing it - may also need some repairs in the process. This could include termite inspections which if left, can result in some hefty bills later on. Always engage the opinion and advice of the right professionals: structural engineers, architects and building inspectors.

Insurance:

You will need to arrange with your insurance with regard to possible damage to the existing structure while the building is taking place. Most home and contents policies do not include damage to existing property when it is under construction. You may need extra insurance for that, and also extra insurance on the new building works, and for any accidental damage done to your neighbour's property.

A realistic timeline:

This is difficult, if not impossible to calculate. No two renovation projects are the same. Depending on your plan, the builders, the extent of the renovations, and allowance for the unexpected such as plumbing or foundation issues, adding a second storey will probably not be completed in under three to six months. However, get an estimate in writing from your builder, so you may legitimately complain should the process begin to drag well beyond reasonable acceptance.

Moving away or living through the changes:

Finding somewhere to stay during the renovations can be costly - or really inconvenient if you are dossing down with family or friends. However, adding a second storey can be an extremely disruptive process. You can of course, have a plan which allows you to move to different parts of the house during the different stages of construction. But this could affect the building process, making it take much longer.

Letting your neighbours know:

This is always a tricky matter - because any alterations to your house will affect your neighbour as well; builders coming and going; noise factor; disruptions of view; and any possible damage the building process may cause to their property. You need to iron out these issues beforehand, and have a plan in place to deal with any problems.

Leapfrog Property Group

Leapfrog Property Group offers a fresh and innovative approach to buying, selling, renting and property investments, ensuring the best property deals for clients across South Africa. Our agents are qualified, trained, experienced; our approach bold and spirited, driven by heart, generosity and honesty. It is our mission to advise,  eliminate obstacles and save you unnecessary expense. Trust is our watchword. And value our motto. Armed with our combined credentials, we are the bright face of excellence in the South African market.