the two major “gotchas” areas in arizona home additions

The Two Major “Gotchas” Areas in Arizona Home Additions


•When space or function is an issue, homeowners opt for home additions than moving to new property

•Home remodeling projects if done properly will pay for themselves over time


•Home additions boosts home’s value, extend overall square footage and add functional living space

•Selecting building materials and finishes enhances home’s character

•Homeowners must proceed carefully if constructing an Arizona home addition


•Homeowners must evaluate several factors to avoid projects going south

•Issues in two specific areas can make or break room addition: Zoning and Existing Home Systems


1. Know Your Zoning Constraints–Know what can or can’t do on your property–Check legal documents, such as property deed, CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions), bylaws, etc.–Pay attention to these zoning restrictions:•Setbacks – buffer area requires open space between neighbor structures for fire safety and appearance


1. Know Your Zoning Constraints•Structure Height – limitations exists so fire truck ladders can reach upper floors and neighborhoods maintain uniform appearance, and views and access aren’t blocked•Buildable Area Ratio – ratio varies between areas, communities restrict amount of yard homeowners can use•Local Rules – limitations may exist due to historical conditions, CC&Rs or something else


2. Existing Home Systems Up-to-Snuff?–Examine home to see if systems can handle demands of new room addition–Issues may not be uncovered until remodeling work begins, this is why you need experienced remodeling contractor–Home systems that home additions may tax:•Structural – second story addition may put extra stress on foundation and ceiling structure


2. Existing Home Systems Up-to-Snuff?•Electrical – home additions require new circuits to boost capacity•Mechanical – may need to add a system or upgrade existing HVAC system•Hazardous Materials – examples are asbestos and lead paint

•Knowing existing systems ahead of time help plan realistic budget


•Proceed with as much information as possible before construction begins

•Work with a qualified remodeling contractor that has ample experience in Arizona home additions


About the Author

Jim Weisman is owner of Republic West Remodeling, an Arizona-based company specializing in home remodeling: kitchens, bathrooms, room additions, outdoor living spaces and more. For more information about Arizona Home Additions, visit http://www.republicwest.com/home-remodeling-az.php today.

http://www.republicwest.com/home-remodeling-az.php



the two major “gotchas” areas in arizona home additions

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