What is a Semi Detached House

A house with a single common wall between two houses is also called a party wall. Often, semi-detached houses have similar layouts and designs. Two houses aren’t joined but share a single common wall.

The party wall acts as a divider between two dwellings and extends the entire length of these two dwellings. A semi-detached house structure allows two families to live in these two houses, but they are joined with a common wall.

• Foundation and framing
• Shared wall
• Roofing system
• Exterior elements 
• Interior layout
• Utilities and services
• Storeys and floor

Foundation and Framing 

Semi-detached houses have a strong foundation containing a basement, crawlspace, and concrete slab. Like other houses, the framing of houses also supports the exterior, interior, and floor systems; the framing of houses is mainly made of steel or timber.

Shared wall 

A unique feature of a semi-detached house is a common shared wall, particularly called a party wall.

The wall is extended, and the length of the house is divided into two separate dwellings. A party wall is made of soundproofing and fire resistance standards to maintain privacy between the two houses.

Roofing system

Both dwellings were covered because of the design. Each dwelling has its separate roofing system and structure. Roofs are made of metal roofing, roof tiles and shingles.

Exterior elements 

The exterior of semi-detached houses is primarily symmetrical; both properties mirror each other. 

Sometimes, the exterior depends on the resident’s choice, allowing them to change it according to their preferences. Materials used for the appealing and aesthetic look of a house can vary.

Interior layout 

The interior layout of each house depends on the residents; homeowners can customize them according to their preferences and choices. Interior includes the living room, kitchen, bedroom and washroom like other houses.

Utilities and Services 

Each dwelling in a semi-detached house has its independent utilities ( heating system, electricity and plumbing)  facilities. Because of this independence, any issue in one unit of the house won’t affect the other.

Storeys and Floors

Semi-detached houses have single storeys and floors as compare to coach house, whereas some semi-detached stories have extensions, lofts and basements. Semi-detached houses have mainly two floors, the ground floor and the first.

Owing semi-detached houses can be profitable for these reasons

• Community Feel
• Affordability 
• Privacy 
• Garden space
• Reduced maintenance cost

Community feel

Stronger sense of community among the residents of semi-detached houses because of their proximity to their neighbors.

Affordability 

Affordability is one of the main advantages of these houses. Families with lower budgets and first buyers usually go for semi-detached houses. Detached homes are expensive because of the cost used to build them.

Privacy 

Semi-detached houses have more privacy because they have neighbors on one side rather than the other side of the dwelling.

Garden space 

Most houses have their own garden space with their own private space.

Reduced Maintenance Cost 

One of the main advantages is reduced maintenance costs if you have good terms with your neighbors. You can repair and maintain the roof on a sharing basis.

The downsides of these houses are given below:

Noise Pollution

Noise mostly comes from your neighbors, affecting your life. For this reason, you can insulate the party wall to avoid noise pollution and other disturbances.

Lower in size

Semi-detached properties are lower in space than detached houses and are usually fit for smaller families and first buyers.

Semi-detached house fence ownership – who owns what?  Sometimes, fence ownership creates issues between residents. It is a general rule that residents are responsible for the fence on the right side of their house.

Can you build a semi-detached house? You can create space according to your choice and allow residents to customize their homes. Construction is exciting work that will enable you to make your own house.

Before you want to start  any form of construction of these houses, it’s essential  to know about some   permissions  that are required:

Planning Permission: 

If you want to build more minor extensions, you don’t need these permissions. But permissions depend on the extension you want to create or construct. You required planning permission through the local council.

Building Regulations Approval: 

You required building regulations approval for work. Ensuring energy efficiency, accessibility and construction safety, these regulations are national standards for work in Wales and England. 

Party Wall Agreement:  You must notify your neighbor if work affects the wall. Also, get a party wall agreement to avoid disputes that can arise between both parties.

You can enhance your living space by following these various options:

Rear Extensions:

You can extend your house at the back. This extension creates much space, allowing a larger space for your living room, kitchen, and dining room. 

Side Extensions: 

You can expand your living area by adding a side extension. You can create more space for your rooms.

What’s the difference between semi-detached and terraced?
Semi-detached houses are attached to one common wall, whereas terraced houses share walls on both sides with other homes in their row.

What is the difference between semi-detached and detached houses?
A semi shares only one common wall with a neighboring house, whereas a detached house shares no wall with another house and stands alone.

The cost of a semi-detached house varies according to the size, location and condition of the property. The cost of a semi-detached house in the United Kingdom ranges from around £200,000 to £400,000 (€232,000 to €464,000). It is still cheaper than buying a detached house, which can cost upwards of £500,000 (€580,000).

Semi-detached houses in the UK offer suitable space for couples, families and singles. Semi-detached houses have a balance between community and privacy. These houses are affordable to first buyers. They blend community living and individual space, suitable for families, couples, and singles alike.