Extension - Where to start!

[zippidydo]

Hi, I am going to build an extension to the back of my house. It will be small, 22 sq m - Small dining room with utility/wc. It will have double patio door out to garden with probably 3 long windows all on one side and the rest will be brick walls with standard roof. I wont need planning permission but should I get a builder in first to run through the build and get some advice? I intend to get around 5 quotes to compare and have a couple of builders in mind locally that have a good reputation but just not sure where to start, would the builder expect me to have plans when he comes to discuss the build?
Would I need to get plans/drawings done for a standard build like this or should a registered builder be enough to stick to building regulations etc? Will want a builders finish as I will get flooring, tiling, painting etc done separately. Also, any idea on prices in the midlands at the moment?

 

[Docarch]

...a registered builder...

You may be waiting a little while to get one of them! No such thing.

Get yourself an architect or architectural technician to advise you (also getting confirmation that you do not require planning permission...as you suggest), and, I would suggest, that at least get them to draw up some basic plans for you/prepare a basic specification then approach builders to get prices/quotes.

If you approach builders without plans/specifications, you will get 'apples and oranges' type quotes (i.e. hard to compare) as each builder will have their own idea how the extension might be built.