Building a new extension

We loved our house from the first time we went through, but it really didn't have enough living space. We have worked on improving the layout of the home and increasing the living area of the home to create a modern and more pleasant layout to the home. We are really proud of how the job has turned out and we wanted to share some of the details of how the extension and layout changes where designed and constructed. This blog has some of the photos of our extension as well as tips that we have learnt along the journey,.

Some Commonly Asked Questions About a Site Analysis for a Residential Property

Construction & Contractors Blog

If you've been told that you need a site analysis performed on your property for any reason, you may not understand everything that is involved in this analysis or why it's necessary. Note a few commonly asked questions that homeowners may have about a site analysis and then discuss these with a professional so you can better understand what is involved and how this analysis can benefit you.

1. How is a site analysis different than a land survey?

Land surveyors specialize in the boundaries of a land and may be able to mark off encroachments, easements, and the like. However, a site analysis is usually much more detailed and in-depth. This might include issues with zoning, if there are historic buildings on the property, if there are noncompliance issues with buildings on the property, if there are hazards on the property, and other such details that would not be included in a typical land survey.

2. Why is a site analysis needed when applying for a building permit?

When constructing anything on your property, you want to ensure that it doesn't encroach on the boundary lines, but there is much more involved in any new construction. For example, there may be erosion concerns if your construction were to block the flow of moisture from one area of the property to another or if you were planning on clearing the property of all vegetation and trees before construction begins. A building's weight may also be of concern depending on the composition of the soil, and you may need to include plans to underpin the foundation or otherwise protect the building with your request for a permit. All of this information is based on a site analysis, which is why it may be required before you obtain a building permit.

3. Why is a site analysis recommended when purchasing homeowner's insurance?

The insurance you have on your home includes more than just the house itself; the insurance also covers the property you own and may take into account any hazards such as the risk of flooding. A site analysis can note these hazards on your property or if they've been removed; for example, a large tree that was posing a hazard to a neighbor may have been cut down and this might lower your homeowner's insurance premium. Your insurance carrier may require a site analysis to support this information, which is why it's often recommended before purchasing this insurance.

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12 April 2016