How long will it take?
The all-important timescale
It all starts with a free consultation, where we visit your property to discuss your needs. After outlining your options, we’ll do a rough sketch to help you visualise the ideas.
Every project then follows a simple 3-step process to deliver the desired result. At the end of this process, you’re ready to start work on the build.
Step 1:
Initial Design & Feasibility Report
Step 1 confirms whether your preferred option is achievable on your budget. It provides rough costs and a timescale for the work.
- A full measured survey together with photos of your property and the surrounding area.
- The initial design of your chosen option, showing how it would look and how it would work. Detailed notes explain what’s involved in terms of cost and disruption (knocking down walls, relocating pipes etc.)
- A follow-up meeting to develop the design.
- A pre-application enquiry (if necessary) to seek written feedback from the council.
- A comprehensive report including estimated build cost, timescale, anticipated challenges and solutions and a fixed quote for any 3rd party fees.
Timing – We send out the initial design within 2-3 weeks of the survey.
Step 2:
Permitted Development or Planning Permission
Submitting a planning application results in a Certificate of Lawful Development. It’s not mandatory in the case of Permitted Development but it is advisable. If you decide to sell your home, you’ll be asked to show the certificate. Letting us handle the numerous forms and policy casework will give you the best chance of gaining council approval.
- Develop the architectural drawings to meet the application requirements of your local authority.
- Complete all the necessary forms and produce supporting statements.
- Submit the application on your behalf.
Timing – Developing the drawings and submitting the application takes 2-3 weeks. The council decision can then take a further 8-10 weeks. If you require Planning Permission and the feedback from the case officer in Step 1 is positive, we can move onto Step 3 much sooner.
Step 3:
Structural Design & Building Regulations Approval
Nearly all projects require Building Regulations approval. Approval is granted based on detailed structural drawings. Most contractors also need these drawings in order to quote for the building work.
- Add construction detail to the approved drawings to comply with Building Regulations. The detail includes specifying building materials, structural design (mandatory 3rd party fee), thermal performance specification (if applicable) and Party Wall Agreement (if applicable).
- Submit the Building Regulations application on your behalf.
- Provide your builder with a copy of the structural drawings.
Timing – We can complete the detailed design work within 2-3 weeks of receiving council approval. Building Control may then take up to 4 weeks to approve the final design.