Converting a bungalow into a two-story house has become increasingly popular in recent years as many take advantage of relaxed planning laws introduced in 2020. Extending your property upwards can maximise your home’s footprint without sacrificing any of your garden space.
With an increasing number of people living in multi-generational families, converting a bungalow into a house effectivity doubles your living quarters, and it might be more straightforward than you think.
In our comprehensive guide to bungalow-to-house conversions, we answer several key questions about what the project entails and whether your property might be suitable for such an alteration.
What is a bungalow-to-house conversion?
A bungalow-to-house conversion represents a substantial transformation that breathes new life into single-story bungalows. Beyond the technical aspects involved, this conversion signifies a remarkable change in the dynamics of a home. It opens up a world of possibilities for homeowners seeking to maximise their living space. With the addition of a second floor, the once-modest bungalow is elevated to a more spacious and versatile dwelling.
This significant expansion brings about various advantages, the foremost being the considerable increase in living space. Families often find that this conversion offers an ideal solution for accommodating growing needs. It allows for the creation of additional bedrooms, making room for expanding families or providing comfortable guest accommodations. The extra space can also be allocated for home offices, creating conducive environments for remote work, or for recreational areas, fostering family bonding and relaxation.
Moreover, a bungalow-to-house conversion can substantially enhance the property’s market value. It effectively transforms the bungalow into a more desirable two-story home, appealing to a broader range of potential buyers. This increased marketability can be advantageous should homeowners decide to sell their property in the future, making it not just a practical choice but also a wise investment.
Another noteworthy aspect is the freedom for customisation. Homeowners have the liberty to tailor the design and layout of the new second floor to their exact preferences. This personalisation ensures that the converted space aligns perfectly with their lifestyle and needs. Whether it’s a spacious master suite with a luxurious ensuite bathroom or a series of cozy bedrooms for a growing family, the possibilities are nearly limitless.
In many cases, one of the appealing aspects of a bungalow-to-house conversion is the preservation of the bungalow’s original charm on the lower level. The character and architectural features of the original structure can be retained, creating a delightful blend of classic and modern elements. This juxtaposition often results in a unique and inviting atmosphere, where the old seamlessly integrates with the new.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that bungalow-to-house conversions come with considerations and challenges. The cost involved in such a transformation can be significant, encompassing architectural design, construction, and potential unforeseen expenses. Additionally, navigating the planning permissions and compliance with local regulations can be intricate and time-consuming. It’s crucial to work closely with experienced architects and contractors who can navigate these complexities effectively.
Ensuring the structural integrity of the existing bungalow is another critical factor. Adequate foundation support is essential to bear the additional weight of the second floor, and structural modifications may be necessary to achieve this. Lastly, homeowners should be prepared for a potentially extended construction timeline, as bungalow-to-house conversions often require more time due to their comprehensive nature.
A bungalow-to-house conversion offers a transformative journey for homeowners seeking to maximise living space and property value. It is a renovation project that brings both practicality and luxury, allowing families to grow and thrive in a more spacious environment. However, it’s essential to approach this endeavour with careful planning, professional guidance, and a clear understanding of the challenges and costs involved to ensure a successful outcome.
What is the bungalow-to-house conversion process?
As you can expect, a major structural process must be done in stages. The first step is to remove the roof and gut the exterior. Next, the interior of the lower floor will need to be altered, followed by the construction of a second storey and new roof. We can then install a pre-fabricated timber framework, which all the new rooms will be built around.
We also need to reclad the property exterior and install new windows. Once the main body of work is completed, we can install pipework, door frames and all other fixtures and fittings. Changes will also be made to the exterior of the building to make the additional storey look as natural as possible.
Do you require planning permission for a bungalow-to-house conversion?
Following a review of planning laws in 2020, bungalows can be extended upwards through a fast-tracked planning process. This change has removed a lot of the red tape around house conversions. However, it is worth noting that there will still be some restrictions. Some planning authorities may prefer the final plans to resemble a bungalow with a loft conversion rather than a house. Where possible, it is worth seeking out some like-for-like properties in your town, as this may help increase your chances of a successful planning application. It is imperative that you speak with your local council in regards to planning prior to beginning any major overhaul of your property.
Can every bungalow be converted into a house?
Not every bungalow can be converted into a house. You will need to assess whether your foundations can bear the new structural load. Pre-fabricated timber frames are much lighter than masonry alternatives, though we still recommend seeking advice from a structural engineer, who will dig some test holes and assess the interior walls. It is also a good idea to perform a bat survey. Essentially, you need to determine whether the significant structural modifications to add a second storey to your bungalow will be both practical and cost-effective. You might also need to ascertain what rooms can be added upstairs and how any changes might affect your current living arrangements.
Design considerations for a bungalow-to-house conversion
When it comes to design, there are several things to consider before embarking on the project. One of the main considerations is the layout, for example, the number of additional rooms to add to the second storey and the best area to add a stairwell. You also may need to update your heating system and add further insulation to help your home retain energy. You will also need to consider the exterior of your property and ways the additional storey can retain the look of your original build.
How much does a bungalow-to-house conversion cost?
Before embarking on such a project, it’s understandable to want guidance on how much the work will cost. No two conversions are the same, but a general estimate for an upwards extension is around £1,750 per square metre. Costs could increase if you need to factor in additional structural support, i.e. underpinning of foundations. We also recommend having a surplus available for unforeseen expenses.
How long does a bungalow-to-house conversion take?
The benefit of a pre-fabricated timber frame is that it is constructed off-site, meaning any preparatory work to the existing structure can begin beforehand. On average, installation of the timber frame takes around four weeks, with additional time to factor in for fixtures and fittings. Other aspects of the build that determine the timescale include the condition of the original building, the availability of materials and the skill and competence of the contractor.
Common pitfalls of a bungalow-to-house conversion
One of the most common pitfalls of bungalow-to-house conversions is a lack of specialist knowledge. Due to the scope of the modification, it is essential to seek professional advice so that the conversion is completed according to correct and legal building practices and meets every safety requirement.
Remember, even if you have acquired planning permission, such a change to your property may impact the local neighbourhood, so it is best to be mindful of any concerns.
Like any other major renovation project, you might uncover unforeseen problems, like asbestos, which need rectifying before work can be completed, adding to the time and cost. There may also be issues surrounding your existing plumbing and electric systems, which may require an upgrade to support a new floor.
Who performs bungalow-to-house conversions?
Now you have decided to undertake a bungalow-to-house conversion, you might be wondering who to turn to. Due to the scope of this type of renovation, it is typically performed by a professional contractor, assisted by specialists like architects and structural engineers. The contractor will project manage everything from beginning to end and can usually show you previous examples of similar bungalow-to-house conversions they have undertaken in the past.
Bungalow-to-house conversions: final thoughts
LMB Group are one of the leading loft conversion specialists in South London covering all towns but also covering the whole of the South East including Middlesex, Kent and Surrey and have years of experience in bungalow-to-house conversions. Why not speak to one of our experts today for some advice?
