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When considering structural alterations to your house, it is generally best to involve a planning consultant or architect early on. There are likely to be local codes, regulations and planning requirements to be approved before work can commence, and one or other of those specialists will help you with drawing up plans and speeding them through the approval procedure.

With respect to the age and style of the property being dealt with, you may have to consider asbestos removal. In the UK, asbestos removal is a regulated activity, and removal can only be carried out by licensed contractors.

Based on the range of your alterations, you may, in addition to the specialists above, wish to use a structural engineer. Any structural alterations that require removal of just one or more walls, possibly load-bearing walls, are most likely to need the engineer's attention. A Structural Engineer will determine if any additional work is required with regard to these load-bearing walls, whether or not new support beams are required, and whether or not alterations to the foundations are required as a result of additional loading.

Once the project has been approved, a demolition contractor may be needed by you; as the homeowner can attempt this single - handed, it really is a good idea to call in an expert contractor to make sure that its surroundings and your home remain safe through the entire process.

Request family, friends or neighbours for recommendations when choosing a builder, and ensure that the builder you choose is just a part of a trade federation, as membership of such usually brings with it a certain minimum standard of work, and sometimes guarantees of standards by the federation. You should also verify that work carried out will be covered by a warranty, rather one backed by an insurance carrier. Ask more than one contractor for quotes, and ask to see examples of their previous work, perhaps involving visits to their previous clients. Thoroughly review the extent of the works to make sure that there is no place of doubt between you and your builder, and agree with an installment plan, whereby you will probably pay for the task in stages. shady lane great barr