Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 5/3/2011

Question
I would like to add a full 2 story addition to my existing 1 1/2 story home. I would like to add 2 bedrooms and a 2 piece washroom. What are the procedures? As of now there is an attic on the second half of the 2nd floor.  What are the costs related to this addition?  What expert do I have to consult for this reno?

Answer
Hi Lianne, in these early stages of a project such as this you really should find a local architect to help you work through the process.  He will identify the existing structural conditions and come up with a solution to hopefully create the space you want.  I really can't put a number on this for you but for budgetary purposes you can figure 100 dollars a square foot minimum depending on many conditions and depending on what kind of finishes you are looking for.  Another option would be to contact a local builder or general contractor and have them give you a basic idea of what it will take to do the job and give you a "guesstimate" as to the cost as well.  Then if you still want to do the project he can probably help you get hooked up with a design professional to draw up the final plans or do the design work himself if the project isn't too complicated.  I don't know about Canada but if you need a building permit you may be required to submit professionally drawn plans sealed by an architect and/or engineer..I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com