Plan Better. Build Smarter.
Thinking about extending your home in Kent ?
A well-planned house extension can add space, comfort, and long-term value, but it’s easy to overlook the hidden costs that can quickly push your budget off track.
At Hargrave Construction & Renovations, we’ve helped homeowners across Ashford, Canterbury, and the surrounding Kent areas understand the true cost of a home extension and how to plan with confidence.
Before you start your project, here are the key hidden costs to watch out for and how our expert team helps you avoid them.
1. Groundworks and Foundations
What lies beneath can make a big difference to your budget. Poor soil conditions, drainage issues, or tree roots can all require additional work or deeper foundations.
Our approach: we carry out early site assessments so you know exactly what’s needed before we start digging.
2. Structural Changes to the Existing Property
Removing load-bearing walls or connecting an extension to the main house often needs extra steelwork or alterations that aren’t obvious from the plans.
Our approach: we work closely with your architect or engineer to plan all structural work upfront and prevent unexpected changes later.
3. Upgrading Electrics and Plumbing
Older systems might not cope with new circuits, lighting, or heating zones. Even if you’re only extending part of your home, this can trigger upgrades to your consumer unit or boiler.
Our approach: we include professional mechanical and electrical input at the design stage so there are no nasty surprises.
4. Finishing Touches and Interior Fit-Outs
Kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and lighting can add more than you expect. Homeowners often allocate budgets for the build itself but forget these finishing costs can account for 25–30% of the total.
Our approach: we provide clear, itemised quotes that separate construction and fit-out so you can control where you spend.
5. Planning and Building Control Fees
Even when your extension falls under permitted development, there may still be fees for lawful development certificates, building inspections, cctv surveys for public sewer drain runs and drawings.
Our approach: we can handle all applications and submissions for you – so you stay compliant and avoid delays.
6. Changes During the Build
Last-minute design tweaks, material swaps, or layout changes can quickly add up.
Our approach: we agree clear specifications before work begins and any variations are fully costed and approved in writing.
7. Site Access and Logistics
Tight access for machinery, restricted parking, or the need for temporary storage can increase labour time and costs.
Our approach: we visit every site in person to plan logistics early and keep your project running smoothly.
How Hargrave Construction Keeps You in Control
We know that no two homes are the same and neither are their challenges. That’s why we:
- Provide detailed, transparent quotes
- Keep open communication throughout your build
- Give you peace of mind that there are no hidden surprises