Homes in and around Belfast
Belfast has long rows of red-brick Victorian terraces, Edwardian villas in the north and south of the city and large post-war estates, while towns such as Ballymena, Antrim, Larne and Carrickfergus mix terraces, semis and newer developments. Dark basalt appears in older rural buildings, and pebbledash or roughcast is a very common finish.
Terraces suit loft conversions and rear extensions, and many need window and roof renewal. Pebbledashed homes commonly need re-rendering, and detached rural houses often take extensions, porches and driveways.
With that background in mind, here is how we typically handle home improvements for homes in Belfast, from the first visit to the finished result.
Planning and building rules for Belfast
Belfast is in Northern Ireland, so the planning and building rules set out below are the ones that apply. We confirm the details with the council before we quote.
In Northern Ireland, councils decide planning applications, and building control approval is given under the Building Regulations (Northern Ireland). Road consents, such as a dropped kerb, come from DfI Roads.
Common questions
Do I need planning permission in Belfast?
It depends on the work, the size of the project, your property type and whether the building is listed or in a conservation area. Belfast is in Northern Ireland, so Northern Ireland's rules apply. Many smaller jobs need no planning application, but some still need building control approval. We check what applies to your address before quoting.
Which postcodes in Belfast do you cover?
We cover BT1, BT2, BT6 and BT7, along with the rest of County Antrim. If your postcode is not listed, get in touch anyway: our coverage is UK-wide, and we can usually arrange a survey wherever you live. Enter your postcode in the guide-price tool or contact form and we will confirm.
Can I stay at home during the work?
In most cases, yes. Most people can live at home throughout, and we plan the work to keep disruption down by protecting floors, agreeing working hours and keeping access routes clear. Bigger jobs affecting kitchens, bathrooms or heating may mean a short spell with reduced facilities, and we talk this through with you at the survey.
What happens at the survey?
We visit your home at a time that suits you, look at the area involved, take measurements and check access, condition and any services that might be affected. We talk through what you want from your project, explain the options and answer questions. There is no charge and no obligation; afterwards we send a written quote.
Can you combine your project with other work?
Yes. Because we manage several trades under one contract, we can plan your project alongside other work on your Belfast home, such as new windows with rendering, or a kitchen refit with an extension. Combining jobs can reduce repeat set-up such as scaffolding, skips and access, and every element is listed and priced in the same written quote.